The midwife who helped the Duchess of Cambridge deliver the Prince and Princess

Learn about Professor Dunkley-Bent and her inspiring contribution to health care, as part of Black History Month…

Professor Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent (Unknown- Present)

Known for being the midwife who helped the Duchess of Cambridge deliver both Prince George and Princess Charlotte, Professor Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent was promoted to Chief midwifery officer by NHS England, making this the most senior midwife position in the United Kingdom.

Starting her career at Nurse City Hospital, Nottingham (1985-1986) Professor Dunkley-Bent went on to excel in midwifery. She worked in various roles in hospitals and universities such as:

• • Homerton Hospital (1988-1992)
  • Middlesex University (1992-2001)
  • Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust (2001-2005)

Professor Dunkley-Bent is now responsible for measures that upgrade support for new and growing families, including:

• • • greater digital access to “red book” medical records
    • better access to physio for mums recovering after labour
    • improved care for critically ill new-borns

Her role includes improving care for new and expectant mothers and their children. She also promotes safer births as part of the NHS Long Term Plan.

As set out in the NHS Long Term Plan, Professor Dunkley-Bent will also help to develop a workforce implementation plan for the NHS. She will achieve this by working with:

• Ruth May, the Chief Nursing Officer for England
• Prerana Issar, the NHS Chief People Officer
• Representatives from staff groups like Royal Colleges and trade unions

Professor Dunkley-Bent started her new role on 1 April 2019.

While Black History Month may have come to an end, we want to continue to celebrate our diverse and wonderful workforce here at the CCG. The Communications team would love to hear about any festivals or activities you will be celebrating or getting involved with, as part of your culture or religion, over the next few months or in the New Year….