Local maternity team takes on Tough Mudder to support expectant families

A local maternity department team is taking on a fundraising challenge to support the purchase of upgraded equipment that will support expectant mothers and their unborn babies.

Some of the maternity Tough Mudder team - Elyse, Jo, Heather, Laura and Louise.

The team of 19, made up of staff from both maternity units at Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals, family and friends, will take on the Tough Mudder challenge on Saturday 9 May to raise funds for Hampshire Hospitals Charity and the purchase of upgraded CTG machines.

These new machines will use the most advanced technology available, helping maternity teams spot signs of distress early, especially in high-risk pregnancies. With clearer, more accurate information, staff can make faster decisions and give every baby the best chance of a safe and healthy start in life.

Elyse Barlett, midwife sonographer at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “What started as an idea in ultrasound as a group activity quickly evolved to a challenge that grew and grew through our maternity team. After hearing about how we could help on the CTG upgrade project and looking at improvements that could be made to the ultrasound department, we decided to run for a cause with the opportunity to make a real difference in maternity for our patients and staff.

“Some of the team have already done a Tough Mudder before, so know what they were signing up for, as for the rest… they will find out!”

Wendy, Jo and Becky will take on the Tough Mudder Challenge

Tough Mudder is one of the UK’s most iconic obstacle course events, set over a challenging course through muddy trails, forest terrain, and steep hills with tough obstacles designed to test strength, teamwork and determination.

Hampshire Hospitals Charity, which supports patients and staff across hospitals in Basingstoke, Winchester and Andover, is currently raising funds to provide five high-spec CTG machines to the maternity department. Sabrina Marsden, fundraising manager at the charity, said: “Every year, around 4,500 babies are born in our hospitals and approximately 80% of expectant mothers will undergo CTG monitoring at least once during their pregnancy. Upgrading our machines means earlier detection of potential problems like low oxygen levels, leading to faster, more accurate interventions.

“By funding five high-spec CTG machines, we can reduce wait times, improve the overall patient experience, and enhance safety across the service.”

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