Midwife-woman relationship
Women in the POPPIE group reported how important it was for them to have a trusting relationship with a midwife who provided individualized and respectful care for them and their families; and how reassuring it was to have telephone access 24/7 to a team, with whom they were familiar, for personal advice and support. They felt at the centre of their care, involved in discussions and informed choices, with no need to repeat own story every time which made them feel safer and calmer, and appreciated the advocacy through their midwives e.g. during birth choices or interactions with other health professionals. The importance of relationships as a pathway for safe and quality of care was also recognized by midwives and stakeholders (quotes to illustrate mechanisms in 