"Exceptional Maternity Care on Ward 24"

We were booked in for an elective section in early May to have our first baby. We arrived at the hospital at 7 am and were met by Laura who was with us until after our operation. We had a short wait until we were taken to surgery, but the time passed quickly and we got to speak to a number of the people who would be in theatre with us to ensure we understood the procedure and what would be happening.

When our time came, I went to the theatre with Laura while my husband was changed into his 'blues'. On arrival, the theatre team were all positive and engaging and, to be honest, helped it feel less daunting. My husband joined me and very shortly after our baby girl arrived!

I had spoken with Laura about skin to skin contact and also that I had hoped my husband could tell me the sex of our child. We were very lucky to get both. Once our daughter was in our arms, the theatre felt less clinical and we were barely aware of Dr Rajagopal continuing to work.

I spent 2 nights in ward 24 and I have to say the care I received was second to none, there was not one person we came into contact that was not a credit to the NHS, everyone was so positive and supportive. I couldn't have made it through the nights I was in hospital, after my husband had left, if it hadn't have been for the midwives. As I was struggling to move on the first night, they were always there to lift the baby to me, or help me in anyway. They were always so encouraging.

I know that there were many of the team who helped support us during those first days, unfortunately I only recall a handful of names, Tracey, Gillian, Sinead, Laura, all exceptionally caring midwives who never made me feel like I was mad, or needy!

The catering team and the support staff we found to be incredibly friendly as well, always cautious that they weren't interrupting. The food, incidentally, was great the whole time I was there - I probably ate better than I have done in ages!

We will always be eternally grateful for the baby that the team in Ward 24 delivered and for the support, information and encouragement we received from the team - they were absolutely great and I have nothing negative to say. Keep up the great and amazing work you do.