Released on: 13 April 2015
In response to the death of social anthropologist Sheila Kitzinger, Elizabeth Duff, Senior Policy Adviser, NCT, said:
"Sheila Kitzinger’s research around the culture of childbirth contributed to major changes of policy and practice in the UK and elsewhere. She worked with NCT in its early years on the training of antenatal teachers, classes for expectant couples, support of vulnerable women and she challenged the need for the rapid increase in caesarean section surgery.
“Her vigour, accessibility and wide knowledge made her much in demand as a speaker. She was never shy of addressing controversial topics or supporting neglected women, such as those pregnant in prison. She was a warm and generous woman who will be greatly missed by those at NCT who knew her and valued her research."