AN EXMOUTH MOTHER and the co-ordinator of the East Devon branch of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is celebrating after receiving recognition for the groups campaigning efforts.

AN EXMOUTH MOTHER and the co-ordinator of the East Devon branch of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is celebrating after receiving recognition for the groups campaigning efforts.

The branch was named NCT active campaigner of the month for December following its work in overturning a decision by NHS Devon to scrap overnight stays for new mothers.

Tania Needham, who was an integral figure during the campaign, said: “It was a lovely surprise to be named as NCT Active Campaigners of the month.

“It is very much appreciated to have been recognised by Head Office and to make other branches aware of the success of the campaign.

“It means a great deal as it was an important subject that we all felt very passionate about and being a mum of two boys myself and having experienced the unit made it even more so.

“We have represented all that are involved in NCT Exeter and East Devon and of course have spoken on behalf of the many new mums to be and mums with new babies.

“Also being involved in this campaign group will go onto helping other NCT branches that may be experiencing the same situation.

“We were really pleased to be part of an extremely dedicated and amazing campaign group, and strongly believe that if we all pull together and have the power of the spoken word it does help to make a difference.

“It is fantastic to have the outcome that we have and are very much hoping to work closely with the NHS in the future on these new proposals to help new mums and their babies get all the care that they truly deserve.”

Honiton Maternity Matters campaigner, Claire Wright, said: “Tania has been a key player in the Honiton Maternity Matters Group.

“For months Tania worked really hard, getting signatures for petitions, talking to Exmouth mums, raising the profile of what was happening to maternity services and liaising with her head NCT office. Her involvement gave the campaign credence. Having the NCT on board meant that people sat up and took notice.

“She has done a fantastic job, we couldn’t have done it without her and we will continue to rely on her support as we work with the NHS to help design their future maternity service.”