An Indigenous maternal liaison supports culturally appropriate birthing experiences for Indigenous pregnant persons (Life-Givers) accessing health and wellness services at Surrey Memorial Hospital.

Last updated: March 10, 2026

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:

  • Liaise between Life-Givers (pregnant or postnatal persons) and hospital staff to ensure Life-Givers’ choices and decisions are respected.
  • Support Life-Givers in navigating maternal health and cultural services (e.g., Elder connections).
  • Support in accommodating for Life-Givers’ specific ceremonial requests.
  • Connect Life-Givers to culturally appropriate community services.

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: 236-332-7615

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.

Katherine Bartel, Indigenous maternal liaison, Family Birthing Unit, Surrey Memorial Hospital

A heartfelt journey to culturally appropriate maternal care for Indigenous Life-Givers

An Indigenous maternal liaison is helping Indigenous Life-Givers at Surrey Memorial Hospital have culturally appropriate birth experiences.


Katherine Bartel, Indigenous maternal liaison, Family Birthing Unit, Surrey Memorial Hospital

My birthing journey with the Indigenous Maternal Liaison Program

An Indigenous maternal liaison supports culturally appropriate birthing experiences for Indigenous pregnant persons (Life-Givers) accessing health and wellness services at Surrey Memorial Hospital.


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