A MIDWIFE at Barnsley Hospital who helps bereaved families to cope with the loss of a baby or child has been shortlisted for a national award.

Cath Jones, the hospital’s bereavement midwife, has made the final six in the 'Midwife' category of the highly regarded Butterfly Awards, which celebrate and recognise the achievements of families overcoming baby loss and the health care professionals who support them.

Cath, who has worked in the role for ten years, was nominated by one of her patients, Emma Breeds, for the outstanding care and compassion she showed her when she lost a baby.

Emma said: "Although I didn't meet Cath at the time our angel was born, she has been a huge support in the months and years that have passed since.

"She's a wonderful person - she's always at the end of a phone when you need someone to talk to."

Cath helps families who lose a baby or a child by providing advice and support and makes herself available every day of the week between the hours of 8am and 10pm.

She keeps in contact with families no matter how long ago their baby or child passed away - and is even in touch with one family she met ten years ago.

This outstanding level of commitment has even led to Cath being invited to christenings, weddings and birthday parties.

Cath said: "Since I started I’ve always been determined to make our service as good as it possibly can be for our patients and their families.

"I think it’s really important to develop good relationships with families and to help them in the long term, not just immediately after they have suffered their loss.

"It's an enormous privilege to be shortlisted in these awards, but it wouldn’t have happened without the fantastic support of the hospital and my colleagues."

Sue Gibson, the hospital's head of midwifery, said: "Cath does a wonderful job and we're all so proud of her. I strongly encourage people to vote for her so she can gain the recognition she deserves."

To vote for Cath, click here and click on the ‘Voting’ tab at the top. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony on October 19.