17 Strengthening Midwives’ Wellbeing When Supporting Refugee Women’s Mental Health: A Salutogenic Perspective

Speaker:- Amanda Firth

Facilitator:- Jane Houston

Abstract:- Presenting findings from doctoral research.

Objective: To explore how midwives experience and manage the emotional and systemic demands of supporting asylum-seeking and refugee (ASR) women with perinatal mental health (PMH) needs, and to identify organisational factors that strengthen wellbeing. Method: 

 A qualitative design was employed, drawing on 14 in-depth interviews with midwives working across 13 NHS Trusts in England. Results: Three themes were identified: 

 Navigating fragmented systems: Midwives described challenges accessing PMH support for ASR women, yet many demonstrated creative problem-solving and advocacy to bridge gaps in care. Where integrated multidisciplinary pathways existed, midwives felt more confident and supported enhancing manageability. Emotional labour and professional resilience: Midwives’ commitment to equitable care was strong, but exposure to trauma and systemic barriers was emotionally taxing. Access to reflective supervision and peer support strengthened their resilience and helped sustain meaningfulness in their role. 

 Learning, guidance and professional growth: Most midwives reported limited training specific to ASR women’s PMH, affecting comprehensibility. However, those with culturally responsive, trauma-informed education described increased confidence and satisfaction, highlighting the transformative potential of targeted professional development.

Key message: Supporting asylum-seeking and refugee women’s mental health begins with caring for midwives too. Salutogenic, resource-based systems can protect staff wellbeing and advance compassionate, equitable maternity care.

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