A PIONEERING project to improve the care of mums having caesareans has been highly commended.

The enhanced recovery pathway in obstetrics is led by Venkat Raman, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and maternity and anaesthetic teams at Southend Hospital.

It was launched in May 2015, and aims to ensure the highest levels of care and health during C-sections to help speed up recovery - which means that mum and baby spend quality time in their own home after delivery.

It has been highly commended in the category of obstetrics and gynaecology in the Health Service Journal Value in Healthcare Awards 2017.

Mr Raman said: “Just for us to be nominated for an award was a huge honour, let alone highly commended for our passion and hard work. The team are immensely proud.”