"Maternity ward Dorchester."

I don't normally set about writing a review for things but after our experience at Dorchester Maternity unit I felt that it was important too.

From the very first midwife appointment in the community to the safe delivery of our first child every encounter we have experienced by the people who work on the unit or in the community connected to it was absolutely incredible.

During my pregnancy I had needed to visit the units day assessment service a few times.

On each occasion when you're feeling anxious about outcomes of the monitoring the staff were cheerful, kind and explained what they were doing. I was never made to feel 'silly' for being there in fact quite the opposite they would repeatedly reassure me that if I was ever concerned it was always best to come in and get things checked. The monitoring they completed was thorough and I always came away from there (thankfully with good news that all was well with baby) but also reassured and supported.

I also had wonderful experiences at my midwife appointments at my GP surgery. I saw quite a few of the community midwives within my local area and although not always consistent with seeing the same person, each midwife I met was welcoming, lovely and again explained everything to me with enthusiastic knowledge. I felt comfortable asking questions and was offered really helpful advice and support.

Lastly we would like to say a special thanks to a particular member of staff.

There was a moment at the end of my pregnancy which was very difficult for my husband and I.

this member of staff wasn't scheduled specifically to meet with us but had been informed of things so took the time from their no doubt busy day to sit down and talk with us about our options, how we were feeling and gave us confidence to continue on the path we had then chosen but with a plan in place if things were to change. They also sought guidance from a consultant who also took the time to talk with us. We came away that day from the unit and felt we had just experienced truly incredible support and service, it was exactly what we had needed and I genuinely feel so grateful for having been given that opportunity to just sit and talk with them.

So yes I would highly recommend Dorchester maternity unit to everyone. Thank you to all of the staff there for everything that you did for us, you are all brilliant!