Singleton maternity unit Swansea 50 mile challenge

on 12 January 2021 RCM Branches

Singleton maternity unit got together and took part in the Maggie’s Swansea 50 mile challenge for January. Over 60 members of staff including midwives, healthcare support workers, obstetricians and managers took part and raised over £10,000. 

This was initiated by midwife Claire Parkin who signed up to take part in the challenge and was keen to get her colleagues involved, not only to raise money for such a fantastic charity, but to boost morale amongst staff. Claire asked on a private work Facebook page if anyone wanted to join her, then to engage staff and create a team approach to the challenge, Claire created a ‘maggies challenge’ what’s app group for all staff that had signed up.

To add some fun and get staff motivated, Claire set out some individual challenges within the group with prizes on offer for best scenic views, best action shot, best costume, best distance, best times and best furry friend.

This challenge brought the maternity team together; there were lots of chats, lots of pics, definitely lots of competitiveness but most of all lots of laughs. Times can be tough in maternity, long shifts, no breaks and with covid-19 and lockdown added to the mix it was something that was very much needed in our unit. Morale was boosted and spirits raised.

This challenge gave staff a reason to be motivated, a reason to get up and get out exercising and really brought the team together. Claire went above and beyond to create this feeling of togetherness, lift spirits and create a genuine sense of friendship amongst the maternity team. Even at the end of the challenge Claire kindly created gift bags for all the children that took part in the challenge with their parents. Here are a few quotes from staff who took part in the challenge;

“ I am so grateful to you Claire for organising this for us. Not only has it been amazing to raise so much money for Maggie’s, it has been amazing for us to come together as a team. It’s really boosted morale and cheered us all up”

“Thank you Claire it has been fab, I’ve loved the running, loved the banter, thrilled to raise some money for such a well deserved cause with some amazing colleagues. Well done everyone”

“Thank you, we have all had such a giggle doing this, it has definitely brightened my January”

“When morale has been so low during this horrendous pandemic, what a way to boost everyone, not just for our own sanity but this has brought an amazing team together. I personally would like to thank Claire for boosting morale and on her team building efforts, I think it’s been amazing, proud to be part of team Singleton. Well done everyone”

“It’s been so lovely seeing everyone’s posts, having fun, getting outdoors and raising money for a great cause. Well done everyone”

“I am so gutted it is over, it has been fab”

“True legend Claire. Thanks for your time, effort and encouragement. Means an awful lot, proud of you and proud to call you a friend and a colleague”

“I feel so lucky to have been involved in this, it’s been so good on so many levels – magnificent maggies, teambuilding, weightloss, making me smile, and so much money raised 10k

And lastly a picture of Claire on her final miles of the challenge, once again making us all laugh and applause her amazing efforts #teamsingleton #maggies #10k