Becky Eason, a maternity support worker at Friarage Hospital, has been awarded a Chief Midwifery Officer (CMidO) Maternity Support Worker Award for her outstanding contribution to maternity services in North Yorkshire.
The CMidO Awards recognise midwives and maternity support workers across England who demonstrate excellence, innovation, and dedication to patient care.
Becky was nominated under the category ‘Commitment to Quality of Care’ for her dedication to improving patient care and her proactive approach to addressing unmet healthcare needs in the local community.
Closing gaps in public health services
Becky identified a gap in local community care after discovering smoking cessation services were not available for pregnant women in North Yorkshire, despite being offered in Middlesbrough.
Determined to ensure all women receive the same level of care, she trained and launched the service in Northallerton.
Since January 2024, Becky has helped 15 women deliver smoke-free babies and is supporting a further eight, with postnatal follow-up to sustain long-term health benefits.
She also introduced walk-and-talk sessions locally, previously unavailable in North Yorkshire, giving pregnant women and young families opportunities to improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Making a difference every day
In addition to her public health initiatives, Becky works across Friarage and The James Cook University Hospital, providing antenatal and postnatal support, newborn screening, glucose tolerance testing, and wider multidisciplinary care.
Becky said: “All women using our maternity services, whether at the Friarage Hospital or James Cook, should be receiving the same services for better outcomes of care.
“Addiction is a very hard process, people assume that being pregnant is enough to stop smoking, but for some this is a real challenge and being able to support them to overcome this and congratulate them on their success’s is a great part of my role.”
Praise from leaders
Becky was presented her award by Dr Tracey Cooper MBE, regional chief midwife for the North East and Yorkshire, during a visit to the Friarage Maternity Centre.
Tracey said: “Becky’s commitment to improving care is evident in everything she does. Her work to introduce smoking cessation and walk-and-talk services has made a real difference to women and families. This award is thoroughly deserved.”
Lynne Staite, University Hospitals Tees’ head of midwifery, who also joined Becky at the award presentation said: “Becky is an asset to our team. She goes above and beyond every day to ensure women receive the best care, and it is wonderful to see her recognised for her dedication.”
Reflecting on her achievement, Becky added: “I was overwhelmed with the award, it is so nice to feel appreciated in any role you do, but to have your work get noticed is a lovely feeling and I am very grateful for my supportive team and this nomination.”