Oral history and research part 2: current practice

Abstract

This is the second of two articles investigating the use of oral history research in midwifery. This article explores the relevance of oral history research findings for contemporary and future practice. PreNHS community midwives provided one-to-one, midwifery-led care, which resembles the practice recommended by current government policy. Concerns have been raised as to the sustainability of such practices. This article uses the themes proposed by Sandall (1997) to analyse the practice of preNHS midwives, and suggests that occupational autonomy is of particular significance in maintaining job satisfaction and morale.