Trish Dyter, senior midwife and professional midwifery advocate at Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust (LGT), has celebrated 50 years of service and dedication in the profession. The milestone was marked with a surprise celebration at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, surrounded by colleagues past and present.
Career Beginnings and Evolution
Ms Dyter began her career at Queen Mary’s Hospital in Sidcup on June 1, 1976. Over the decades, she has supported families through significant changes across the NHS and maternity services. Reflecting on her long career, she said: "I have always loved what I do, there has been a great variety of experience. I have watched the profession develop and change over the years. It remains a privilege to be a part of a woman’s pregnancy, labour and delivery."
She now co-ordinates pregnancy vaccination clinics across LGT sites. Thanks to her leadership, the trust now offers clinics five days a week, including a satellite clinic at Queen Mary’s. She also continues her work as a professional midwifery advocate, carrying out birth reviews to support learning and improve care.
Recognition and Tributes
Shirley Peterson, chief midwife at LGT, paid tribute to Ms Dyter’s influence and dedication. She said: "Trish is a much-loved and valued colleague within the Maternity Unit. She makes time for everybody and is always so kind. Our high maternity vaccination rates are down to Trish and her amazing work. Thank you for everything you do Trish, five decades of dedication, compassion and commitment to women, babies and families."
The Royal College of Midwives has also recognised her achievement, sending flowers and confirming she will be featured in its magazine. Ms Dyter thanked everyone who came to celebrate with her, and expressed gratitude to her children and family.
Advice for Future Midwives
Ms Dyter offered advice to those beginning their midwifery journeys. She said: "BE KIND. I do a lot of birth reviews, and kindness will always be mentioned as a standout. The profession is under so much expectation and pressure, but being kind costs nothing and makes such a difference."
Reflecting on her career, she added: "I have, at home, a trunk full of thank-you cards from ladies and families that I have looked after over the years; these cards would not mean anything to anyone but me. Ladies that I have cared for or delivered still recognise me and will stop to have a chat." Ms Dyter concluded: "I love what I do, enjoy the work and I believe midwifery is part of who I am, and yes, it is in my soul."
