Pontefract midwife receives national recognition in ‘Midwife of the Year’ category for bereavement support
A Pontefract midwife has received special recognition within the UK ‘Midwife of the Year’ category, presented by Mariposa International - a leading UK and global charity supporting anyone affected by baby loss.
Laura Woffendin, who works at Pontefract Hospital, received the recognition in acknowledgement of her “exceptional compassion, care and dedication” to families experiencing bereavement.
She was nominated by a patient she supported through baby loss, who highlighted the profound difference Laura made during one of the most difficult experiences a family can face.
The recognition was presented at the Mariposa Ball, held at the Landmark Hotel in London on April 25, where Laura was selected from a large national field – making this a significant achievement.
Hosted by Mariposa International, a charity who supports people affected by baby loss, the awards recognise outstanding NHS professionals who provide compassionate care to bereaved families.
Kerry Reede Field, director of midwifery, children’s nursing and women’s health at the Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, said: “We are incredibly proud of Laura and delighted to see her compassion and professionalism recognised at a national level.
“Laura consistently goes above and beyond to provide sensitive, person‑centred care to families experiencing loss, and this recognition reflects the very best of midwifery practice.
"She truly embodies our Trust values and makes a lasting difference to the families she supports.”