MIDWIVES across Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board are promoting the benefits of bilingualism to prospective parents as part of a unique project.

The maternity service is working with ‘Cymraeg for Kids’, set up by the Welsh Government in partnership with Mudiad Meithrin, to support and encourage parents and prospective parents who wish to raise their children bilingually.

Established in April 2016, the project works with NHS Wales and other partners to provide advice and support on the benefits of raising a child bilingually.

Representatives from ‘Cymraeg for Kids’ attended the health board’s midwives conference in Wrexham during May this year, where they had the opportunity to discuss with maternity services staff, and especially midwives, in order to emphasis the value of transferring and introducing the Welsh language from the very start.

The Health Board’s Welsh language Team, along with ‘Cymraeg for Kids’, held a stall at Ysbyty Gwynedd recently to allow them to meet with pregnant women and discuss the advantages of the Welsh language and introducing the language at the start of the child’s journey.

Sioned Roberts, translator for BCUHB Welsh language team, said: “Language transmission within the family is an integral part to the success of Welsh Governments’ Cymraeg 2050: Welsh language Strategy, and the Health Board has taken the opportunity to develop this collaborative work with Cymraeg for Kids.”

Fiona Giroud, director of midwifery and women’s services for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, added: “As a service we are absolutely supportive of this initiative and proud to be working in partnership with the project leads across our community services and three maternity units in North Wales.”