This month we feature WorkSafe instructor and midwife Katie Bettle. We asked Katie to share a little about life as a midwife and first aid instructor….
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Hi I am Katie, I have been a qualified midwife for twenty years and a WorkSafe instructor for over two years. I live in Caversham, Reading and have a husband and 2 children, Sarah (15) and Dan (12) and our two rabbits, called Brighteyes and Lou Lou (their RSPCA names we kept on!) I work at a community centre, offering education and support to new parents, alongside bank community midwife shifts. I am also an expert witness so offer support on medical/legal cases.
What led you to become a first aid instructor alongside your midwifery work?
My husband, Rob, works in the theatre industry as a sound engineer. He was due his renewal for first aid at work and I then had the idea of training to be an instructor to help his company. It’s been so useful, particularly as my training with WorkSafe was just a one day course as I had a teaching qualification (from completing a mentorship course, which was level 5, required to teach student midwives). Since then I have taught many different groups of people in the theatre industry, care sector, new parents and community volunteers.
What are some of the most common concerns or questions you hear from new parents?
New parents want to get things right, to have the best outcomes for baby. Reassurance is key and confidence building. Building a trusting relationship is so important so parents feel they can share concerns. Sleep is a very common topic! I try to put parents at ease in my role at the community centre, I teach baby massage to help! I find this very rewarding. Running support groups helps new parents form life long friendships that really help in those early years and beyond.
What do you enjoy most about teaching first aid?
I am a people person! I have always loved hands on work- perfect for healthcare and first aid instructing 😊 I love meeting new people and passing on essential skills in a fun way!
If you could give every new parent one piece of first aid advice, what would it be?
Recently we covered the importance of managing fevers and recognising when babies are unwell. This can help reduce admissions and the risk of convulsions. When I cover weaning sessions followed by first aid on my parenting course we do cover choking which helps build confidence.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working or teaching?
I love time with my family. We like going for walks, bike rides and swimming. We love going to the theatre to watch the shows my husband works on and concerts!
We’re always keen to hear from our instructors, if you would like to feature in one of our Instructor Spotlight articles please get in touch!