MATERNITY staff and new families turned movie-makers to appear in a series of films to explain what to expect when you’re expecting.

Basildon Hospital staff have given virtual tours around the maternity unit to make it easier for parents to see facilities and receive advice.

Midwives and new mums and dads volunteered to help produce the series of short films to give others an idea of what to expect before, during and after the birth of their baby.

The series, available on YouTube, means nurses won’t have to give guided tours around the unit, and parents can have full access to the rooms.

Jennie Ponting, head of nursing for midwifery and gynaecology, came up with the idea.

She said: “Previously, we had to rely on giving parents-to-be tours of the maternity unit on Saturday afternoons, but it wasn’t always possible to show them everything when rooms are in use for birthing.

“Of course, in exceptional circumstances, we will still show people round, but watching the films at home is much better, because they provide all the information and contact details to help new mums and dads have a good experience.”

The tour includes the birthing pool and operating theatre for motherswho need a caesarian.

The films also include advice on going into labour and when to come to hospital, along with information about pain relief and delivery options, including home birth.

Tracy Braddock, manager of the Mulberry Assessment Centre where pregnant women who need close monitoring are cared for, led the project and helped to produce the film.

She said: “Helping to produce the films was a brilliant experience.

We had to come up with a script and music score, and cast mums-to-be and new parents who volunteered to take part.

“Understandably, the women who had just given birth didn’t always want to be filmed right then, so they very helpfully came back in to shoot their scenes.”

See the video below: