Maternal Mental Health Week 2026: “The word midwife means ‘to be with women’ – and that’s exactly what this week is about.”

To mark Maternal Mental Health Week 2026, our Paths maternal mental health service specialist midwives are sharing their thoughts and reflections on why the week is so important.

Jane Mills, Paths specialist midwife, Bradford and Calderdale

This week I’ll be spending time listening to women’s stories across Calderdale, Bradford and Airedale, promoting the Paths service and the support available locally. The word midwife means “to be with women” – and that’s exactly what this week is about.

I’ll be joining Maternity Circles to encourage open conversations about maternal mental health, recognising the social and financial factors that impact wellbeing, and sharing where help can be accessed. These insights will be fed back to colleagues, maternity teams and partner services across the region.

I’m passionate about amplifying voices in maternity, improving communication, and supporting under represented groups. It’s a privilege to witness resilience, healing, and to celebrate positive stories and trauma-informed practice.

Staff matter too. I’ll be joining the tea trolley at Airedale to thank and recognise the vital role staff play – caring for carers is essential.