Lead midwife Angela Ugen tells us why she loves her job

As a teenager, my parents had an elderly woman living in our house as a protected tenant, she had carers visiting daily to care for her during the day. In the evenings or during the night she used to call me when she needed help, I believe that is what attracted me into becoming a nurse. I enjoyed my nursing training and during my placement in the maternity unit, I felt such at peace in the environment. I quickly realised this was the area I wanted to specialise in, bringing new life into the world - amazing!

"When asked your favourite part of your job, every midwife would always say ‘bringing new life into the world’ and I’m no exception!"

As a qualified midwife, I have had the opportunity to practice both in the hospital and community setting, and have held different posts as staff midwife, midwifery practice leader, midwifery matron, Interim Deputy Chief Midwife and currently as Lead Midwife.

Undertaking these roles, I have especially enjoyed supporting my midwifery colleagues as supervisors of midwives - now known as Professional Midwifery Advocates. It is so important that midwives, nurses and other health professionals get all the support they need to be resilient in the workforce.

I am pleased to support colleagues as one of the Trust Speak Up Advocates, being available for staff to discuss in a confidential space any concerns that they wish to raise to ensure we provide safe care for our women and their families, and also wellbeing of the workforce and each other.

With my wealth of life and professional experience I take pride in supporting and encouraging the future generations of midwives and health care providers to be the best in all that they do.

I joined Guy’s and St Thomas’ in 1986, it’s been great to see how the hospital has grown over time. I’ve felt supported throughout my career and had the chance to grow myself, so I’ve found no reason to leave! 

When asked your favourite part of your job, every midwife would always say ‘bringing new life into the world’ and I’m no exception! I really enjoy supporting my colleagues, giving them a reason to be cheerful, and a reason to carry on with the job at hand to the best of their abilities. At the end of the day knowing that you have made a positive difference to someone’s life!

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