“When families are going through the worst time they will ever experience, all you want to do is make their journey even slightly less painful.”

Harriet Whyatt, Bereavement Midwife at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, has won a national award recognising the difference she makes to families during the hardest moments of their lives.

Bereavement midwives offer support, information and compassionate care when a baby dies at any stage in pregnancy.

Harriet said: “Everyone goes to work hoping to do a good job and if you receive a thank you, it always means a lot, no matter what career you are in. When you are a bereavement midwife and meet families going through the worst time they will ever experience, all you want to do is make their journey even slightly less painful.”

She added: “I feel so proud to be a bereavement midwife and I feel immensely privileged to have met and supported every family I have encountered in this role; a role we all wish did not have to exist.”

The CuddleCot awards honour healthcare professionals who go above and beyond in bereavement care, and Harriet was nominated by Emily Rollinson, Umaima Ribeiro, and Olivia Sims, who describe her as calm, thoughtful, and deeply compassionate.

Emily said: “I first met Harriet while preparing for my son’s death. She came to my house to prepare me and run through all my options. After Dexter was born Harriet helped me make memories with him and even supported me through his bath time.

“I took Dexter home using a cuddle cot and Harriet came to visit us numerous times to check everything was ok. Harriet attended Dexter’s funeral giving me all the support I needed.”

Olivia’s nomination read: Harriet has been by my side throughout my pregnancy after losing our first son, Nathan, at five days old. She has supported me and my husband, helping us return to the hospital where Nathan was born, and attending all our scans and appointments for our second baby…I can’t imagine being on this journey without her.”

Tracy Thresher, Matron for Delivery Suite and Maternity Theatres paid tribute to Harriet’s dedication, adding: “Harriet goes above and beyond in her role and ensures each family receives the bespoke support they need to ensure they receive the best possible care through such a difficult time. Her award from CuddleCot is so well deserved, and recognises the support, compassion and kindness Harriet shows every day to bereaved families.”