Community Midwives Share Why Supporting Families Is 'The Best Job in the World'

Tuesday 5th May 2026

International Day of the Midwife recognises the incredible contribution of midwives across the country and the essential role they play in supporting the health and well-being of mothers, babies and families.

Amongst those caring for families in Gwent are Torfaen Community Midwives, Emma Rich, Laura Beech and Kelly Griffiths.

Based at County Community Hospital in Pontypool and GP surgeries across Torfaen, they are part of a close‑knit community midwifery team of ten midwives who provide care to women and families throughout the entire pregnancy journey.

From antenatal appointments and labour care, to home births and postnatal visits, Emma, Laura and Kelly believe that continuity of care is what makes their role so special.

“You’re that one constant person they can come back to.” said Emma, 41, who has been a midwife for almost four years. “You see them through the whole journey - sometimes you even help deliver their baby - and you really do feel like part of the family.”

Laura, 39, who qualified as a midwife nearly five years ago, said: “You can really adjust your care to the person in front of you. Every family is different, and I’d say we’re very good at responding to that. I think that’s how we create such good relationships with our patients.”

The bonds formed with families often last well beyond the postnatal period. The midwives say they are frequently recognised in the local community, and some families keep in touch for years, inviting them to first birthdays, christenings and baptisms.

All three women are incredibly passionate, dedicated and proud to be midwives, describing their roles as ‘more than just a job’.

Emma said: “You can’t do this role half‑heartedly. You’re either all in or you’re out.”

“Yes, it’s work.” Said Kelly, 38. “But it honestly doesn’t feel like work. How many people can say that? I come to work because I genuinely love what I do. It’s like going to see a friend. It’s the best job in the world.”

Emma said: “Sometimes, you’re watching people become a family right in front of your eyes, and it’s such a privilege to watch their worlds change and know you were part of that.”

Despite helping to bring almost 500 babies into the world between them, midwifery wasn’t a first career for Emma, Laura or Kelly.

With Laura working in administration and Emma as a maternity care assistant, both gained first-hand experience of motherhood before becoming midwives. Emma, who became a mother at a young age, says her inspiration came from seeing how vulnerable women can be during pregnancy. She said: “You want to be part of making that experience better for them and providing that support.”

Although Kelly’s strong family background in nursing and midwifery meant she’d always dreamed of being a midwife, she first worked as a teacher before completing her midwifery training almost nine years ago.

“I’d always wanted to be a midwife but I sort of fell into teaching by accident.” Said Kelly. “Walking away from a good teacher’s salary to become a student again was scary, but it was totally worth it.”

Now, after Kelly supported both Emma and Laura throughout their own midwifery training, the midwives work side-by-side to care for families in their local community - as well as each other.

“Being calm under pressure and being that steady support for women is such a big part of the job.” Said Kelly. “But we’re also really supportive of each other as a team - that’s how we keep going through the good times and the bad.”