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Ipswich midwifery lecturer shortlisted for national award for her work supporting neurodivergent mums-to-be

News

A University of Suffolk lecturer has been recognised for her work supporting autistic people in midwifery. Karen Henry is in the running for a prestigious Royal College of Midwives award.

Why it matters: Karen's work promotes inclusion for autistic colleagues, students, and mothers-to-be in midwifery. The nomination highlights efforts to make midwifery more accessible and inclusive, benefiting the local community and beyond.

A photo of Karen Henry
Karen HenryUniversity of Suffolk

Key details:

  • Karen is shortlisted for the Royal College of Midwives Equity, Diversity and Inclusion award

  • She has developed training sessions, co-authored a book, and published multiple articles on supporting autistic individuals in midwifery

  • She's collaborated with the Royal College of Midwives to create a toolkit for educators supporting neurodivergent midwifery students

Practical impact: Henry's work suggests strategies for supporting autistic mothers-to-be, including:

  • Extra time for antenatal appointments

  • Scheduling appointments during quieter periods

  • Arranging visits to labour and postnatal wards to increase familiarity

What they're saying: "Midwifery is a wonderful career which can take you down so many different and wonderful avenues," Henry said. "Teaching midwifery is a joy because I get to share my enthusiasm and knowledge with the students who will take this into practice, and I get to share their journey with them."

Background: Henry graduated from the University of Suffolk in 2018 and began lecturing there in 2022. She describes the university as feeling "like home to me, and I love working here."

What's next: The awards ceremony will take place in London this October. Good luck from Ipswich.co.uk, Karen!

Go deeper: For information about studying midwifery at the University of Suffolk, visit their BSc (Hons) Midwifery programme page.

Get locked up to help unlock a better future for Suffolk families

News

A Suffolk charity is offering locals the chance to make a real difference in their community through an innovative fundraising event that will see participants 'arrested' for fictitious crimes.

Why it matters: Home-Start in Suffolk, the county's largest family support charity, relies on fundraising events like this to maintain its network of volunteers who provide crucial support to local families in need.

Jail & Bail by Home-Start in Suffolk
Jail & Bail by Home-Start in SuffolkHome-Start in Suffolk

How it works:

  • Participants will be 'arrested' and 'jailed' on Friday 28 March 2025

  • They must raise £1,000 in 'bail money' through donations to secure their release

  • Community leaders, business professionals and willing volunteers can all take part

By the numbers: Even small donations can make a significant impact:

  • £25 funds a home visit for one week

  • £50 supports a telephone volunteer for a month

  • £250 can recruit and train a new volunteer

  • £5,000 funds a family support group for an entire year

The bigger picture: The charity provides non-judgemental, emotional and practical support through one-to-one home visits and group support sessions, helping families navigate challenging times.

Bottom line: Whether you're a business professional, community leader or willing volunteer, this unique fundraising opportunity offers a chance to create lasting change in Suffolk families' lives while having some fun along the way.

Those interested in participating can email fundraising@homestartinsuffolk.org for more information.

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