End of an Era: WUTH bids Farewell to Midwife Chris Reid Davies After 47 Years of Service
After an illustrious career spanning an impressive 47 years in the NHS, Midwife Chris Reid Davies bided farewell to Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) last week.
Chris embarked on her journey in healthcare at Clatterbridge on February 4th 1976, qualifying as a registered nurse in 1979. Her dedication saw her contributing to the Children’s Ward until October 1979, after which she embarked on a transformative path by transitioning into Midwifery Training.
Chris noted that working in the NHS felt like a natural career path, following in the footsteps of family members. She said: “I followed in the footsteps of most of the women in the family. My mother, sister and auntie were all nurses in the NHS so that’s how it all started for me. I wanted to do something practical and caring so nursing and midwifery ticked the boxes for me.”
Having earned her stripes as a midwife, Chris continued her work at Clatterbridge until the service's relocation to Arrowe Park Hospital. She transitioned into community Midwifery, and in 1998, she became the Team Coordinator for the Lakeside Team with the introduction of Team Midwifery.
Chris's leadership shone brightly as she undertook the pivotal role of Locality Lead Midwife for the Wallasey Team, steering the team until she transitioned into flexi-retirement in 2016.
“My advice for any aspiring midwife is to always keep the focus on the woman and their family. They are the most important people in the room and that should never be forgotten,” said Chris.
“I will miss the families immensely. It has been a privilege to serve my community. At my leaving meal, I was approached by someone in the restaurant who thanked me for delivering their baby 30 years ago. It’s lovely to think that so many families remember our faces after such a long time.”
Continuing her dedication to healthcare, she embraced the role of a community Midwife within Wallasey and West Wirral Community Teams, leaving a mark as the community Midwife at Hoylake Road Surgery for an impressive 14 years.
As Chris bids farewell, she looks forward to spending more time with her family and playing her beloved golf.
She said: “I’m looking forward to spending more time with family in my retirement. In my role the shifts can mean that you’re not always around for important occasions. My family have been incredibly supportive and understanding so I’m glad I can be home more.
“It will be nice to spend more time on the golf course too. I’m a member of Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake and was the Ladies Captain during COVID. I’m really into my golf so at least now in my retirement I have an excuse to play more!”
Tracy Fennell, Chief Nurse at WUTH said: "Chris has been an absolute pillar within our healthcare community for 47 years. Her commitment to the profession has left a great mark on WUTH. As she embarks on this well-deserved retirement, we extend our thanks and warmest wishes for an incredibly happy and fulfilling retirement. Chris, your legacy will forever be remembered within our hospital and the community."
WUTH extends its heartfelt gratitude to Chris Reid Davies on her retirement. Her tireless efforts, expertise, and professionalism have touched countless lives. We thank her for her invaluable contributions and wish her a very happy retirement.
Chris Reid Davies pictured on the Maternity Day Ward at WUTH's Wirral Women and Children's Hospital.
Chris Reid Davies with a newborn after qualifying as a midwife.
Chris Reid Davies pictured with Naga Munchetty, presenter on BBC Breakfast, during WUTH's Together Awards.