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Journal Vol. 18, No. 3 — Free-standing and Proud

ISSN 0256-5004 (Print)

Editorial
Avril Nicoll express her renewed hope for the Birth Centre movement

Seeing the opportunities
Three years on from the publication of her book 'Birth Centres: A Social Model for Maternity Care' AIMS asked Mavis Kirkham what she would do differently with the book if she were putting it together now...

AIMS comment on free-standing birth centres

On the campaign trail
Free-standing birth centres seem reliant on campaigns, both to start them up and to keep them going. AIMS talks to a number of activists to find out what drives them and, most importantly, what works.

Around the UK and Ireland
Report of the current situation with birth centre in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Holding up a mirror: the impact of user involvement
While user involvement is enshrined in government policy across the UK, its patchy practice reflects the anxiety many professionals feel about the process. But here Phyllis Winters, midwifery team leader at Montrose Community Maternity Unit, explains how real user involvement can be a transforming experience for midwives, women and birth centres.

Everything I'd hoped for
In spite of a difficult first birth, Caroline Rosen chose to have her second son at Aboyne Community Maternity Unit. She explained why at a seminar organised by the Save Aboyne Maternity campaign.

Birthing Utopia
The past 18 months have been difficult for many free-standing birth centres and their supporters. In spite of this Avril Nicoll sees signs that a free-standing birth centre Utopia is within our grasp - and that it will make a real difference.

Focusing In
Looking at free-standing birth centres around the UK; Brent, Caerphilly, Dover, Lichfield, Perth, Powys and Chorley

Research:
AIMS asks Denis Walsh what papers he considers are essential reading for people who want to be informed about free-standing birth centres.

Book Reviews:

Also in this issue:

Sticking with Aboyne...

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