DOZENS of people are expected to take part in a five kilometre walk around Hollow Ponds this week to raise awareness about global inequalities in maternal health.

Midwives and supporters from Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone are getting involved in the event to mark International Day of the Midwife on Thursday (May 5).

It aims to highlight how an estimated 340,000 women worldwide die every year due to preventable birth-related complications.

Organisers also hope that the walk will demonstrate the widespread appreciation of midwives and assistants at Whipps Cross who every year help more than 5,000 expectant families.

Cathy Falvey- Browne, midwifery matron at the hospital, said: “The world needs midwives more than ever. Access to essential midwifery services reduces maternal and infant mortality and reduces the cycle of poverty in developing countries.

"Here at Whipps Cross, we want to demonstrate our commitment to tackling maternal and newborn mortality by walking shoulder to shoulder with midwives around the world.

“We are also holding other events throughout the day to raise awareness of the role of the Supervisors of Midwives and as a thank you to all the midwives in recognition of their commitment to improve the quality of the service they provide.

A bake sale and an information stand are being laid on from 10am at the maternity unit to mark the day, with a coffee morning at 11.30am and guided tours from 2pm.

There will also be fund-raising for the hospital's 'Big Push' appeal to raise funds for extra resources at the unit.

The walk, which is open to all, begins at 6pm by the entrance to the unit and will finish at the Eagle Pub in Wanstead.

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