Alicia Newham

I want to work with and support women and advocate for their rights. I was inspired after hearing the stories of friends and families birth experiences and wanting to improve and be a part of them.  

I chose to study midwifery to help women and birthing people in some of the toughest moments of their lives. Advocating for their rights and wishes gives me a sense of pride. Working for the NHS, a service which is available to everyone and doesn’t discriminate, makes me proud to go to work every day It’s priceless. 

I’ve loved my training. It’s difficult and definitely requires dedication for the duration, maintaining a balance between university and home life. But when you receive positive feedback from qualified midwives and people that you’ve cared for, it’s the most rewarding feeling in the world. It really spurs you on.  

I’ve personally facilitated nine births to date. I’ve learnt that no two births are the same, and there’s no way to know what will happen in each case. It’s so exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. Working in Liverpool Women’s Hospital, I’ve worked in antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal clinical areas, as well as with the community midwifery team.  

The Clinical Skills and Simulation Centre has been great for learning practical skills. I’ve learnt so many clinical skills, such as venepuncture, urinalysis, and fetal heart auscultation. And I’ve developed my communication skills, for which I’ve had some lovely feedback. The University staff and hospital education facilitators have all supported us with our practical and theoretical knowledge as well as pastoral care when things have been tough.  

The lecturers are so kind and knowledgeable. If you have a concern, you can always approach them for help and guidance, they’ve been lifesavers this year. And they provide their resources online if you need to refresh your memory on anything.  

I love the Catalyst, the University’s library and study space. The top floor has the silent study room and the outside rooftop garden – it’s my favourite place on campus, a good place to go, whether you’re revising or learning something new.  

I’m a member of the Midwifery Society which runs events throughout the year. Last year we had a training day on bereavement care in midwifery with a charity called Beyond Bea. The founder came in and spent the day with us. The society also organised an event for International Day of the Midwife looking at the achievements of Edge Hill’s student midwives. It’s a great little community and gives everyone extra support.  

Time off is mainly spent with family. I like to read: ‘Give Birth like a Feminist’ by Milli Hill gave me an idea of the midwife I’d like to be, and how best I could help women have a positive experience of birth. To unwind I enjoy watching films, and ‘Call the Midwife’ is great for a cosy night in after placement, perhaps with a bowl of my signature dish, pesto pasta.  I use Tik Tok to find new books and tv shows.  And I do have a gym membership, for when I’m feeling really energetic. I’ve had an adventure to Barcelona, a solo holiday and the best experience of my life. It was the perfect way to start my university year. My dream holiday would be a trip to Australia. 

Advice for new students? Take as many opportunities as you can, and don’t be afraid to ask for support. You’ll have good days and bad days but if you keep organised, you’ll keep up.