An Indigenous maternal liaison supports culturally appropriate birthing experiences for Indigenous pregnant persons (Life-Givers) accessing health and wellness services at Surrey Memorial Hospital.
The liaison can connect with other health care professionals and service providers to promote and advocate for culturally appropriate and timely care.
An Indigenous maternal liaison can:
- Connect you with a birth keeper (doula) for support in pregnancy and delivery
- Support you in navigating maternal health and cultural services
- Advocate for your choices and decisions with hospital care providers
- Connect you with an Elder or cultural advisor to support cultural practices
- Connect you to culturally supportive community services
- Help make space for culture and ceremony in the hospital, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and delivery room at Surrey Memorial Hospital
- Provide information on the First Nations Health Benefits Program and Métis Nation British Columbia supports
All clients who self-identify as Indigenous or Aboriginal can receive support from an Indigenous maternal liaison. This position is funded by the Surrey Hospitals Foundation.
Contact an Indigenous maternal liaison
Call: 1-877-580-5342.
This is a confidential voicemail service that is checked regularly. Please speak clearly when leaving your message and call back number.
Hours of service: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday (excluding holidays).
Referral: Family members and care providers can refer Life-Givers to the Indigenous maternal liaison. A Life-Giver may self-refer. Referrals and self-referrals are done by telephone or by talking to any hospital staff who can connect Life-Givers and their families with the Indigenous maternal liaison. Please note Indigenous maternal liaison support is given only with Life-Givers' consent.