A TEESSIDE midwife currently working alongside NHS colleagues during the coronavirus crisis has been shortlisted for a national nursing award.

Former science teacher Alison Anderson, who changed career direction to become a midwife, graduated from Teesside University's BSc (Hons) Midwifery with First Class honours in November.

She has now been shortlisted as Student Midwife of the Year in the Student Nursing Times Awards 2020.

Mum-of-four Alison, 40, said: “My time at Teesside University changed my life. I was a secondary school science teacher for 13 years when I chose to follow a calling to study midwifery.

"I wanted my children to see that if you were not happy with something in your life you can change it.”

Now working as a midwife in the maternity unit at James Cook University Hospital, Alison is one of the many members of NHS staff across the country who are continuing to work in unprecedented times.

She said: “It has been so encouraging to see everyone pull together at this time to support each other and cover shifts, whilst still providing seamless quality care to women.”

For her elective placement during the degree, Alison travelled to Tanzania to complete a placement in a small rural hospital, with her husband and children travelling with her.

Alison said: “When I found out that I had been nominated for the Student Nursing Times Award I couldn’t believe it and didn’t think I’d even get shortlisted, so I am really delighted to have come this far.

"I am proud to be able to represent Teesside University, Darlington Memorial Hospital and The James Cook University Hospital at the awards as the only Northern candidate in this category.”

“I would not be realising my dream to practice as a midwife and hopefully making a difference to women in their pregnancy, labour and postnatal period if it wasn’t for the time spent at and opportunities gained whilst studying at Teesside University.

"I owe Teesside University a massive thank you for this opportunity.”

Teesside University has also been shortlisted as Nursing Associate Training Programme Provider of the Year and with County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust for Student Placement of the Year: Community.