Maternity in safe hands
Caroline Macrae grew up in household where her mother helped home deliver the babies of several family members and friends.
“I guess that planted the seed,” said Northwick Park’s Head of Midwifery who initially pursued a career in nursing before following in her mum’s footsteps.
“It’s a very rewarding profession. You can’t beat helping bring a new life into the world. It’s a great privilege to share that intimate moment with families.”
So, why did she join such a complex maternity unit?
“I like a challenge and believe we now have the drive and energy to make a real difference. I am proud the way the team has responded and that is reflected in the workforce culture. We’ve got a way to go but we are heading in the right direction.”
Caroline, who remains one of the few senior Black clinical figures at the trust, says one of the most encouraging developments during her one year tenure so far has been the impact of the Turning the Tide report addressing racial inequalities and shining a light on the experiences of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic NHS staff working in maternity services in England.
“I want all our midwives and nurses without distinction to have the opportunity to develop their careers and go as far as they want to go. Our chief executive started her career as a midwife so why not aim high?”