Clinical Framework

MIAF Disclaimer & Terms of Use

Last updated: April 2026

Important: The Matrescence-Informed Assessment Framework (MIAF) is an evidence-grounded clinical framework currently being prepared for formal validation. It is not yet a validated clinical tool. It must not be used as a standalone diagnostic instrument.

What the MIAF is

The Matrescence-Informed Assessment Framework (MIAF) is an original clinical framework developed by Sharon Dawson ANP to support a more comprehensive approach to perinatal mental health assessment. It was developed from clinical practice, extensive review of peer-reviewed literature, and alignment with current NHS and NICE perinatal mental health guidance.

The MIAF assesses five domains of the maternal experience: Identity and Sense of Self; Neurological and Physical Experience; Emotional Experience and Mental Load; Relationships and Support; and Cultural, Social and Structural Context.

Current status

As of April 2026, the MIAF is in the pre-validation stage of development. Specifically:

The framework has been developed and refined through clinical practice
It has been reviewed by an academic with expertise in perinatal health research
It has been accepted for presentation at the Black Maternal Mental Health Summit 2026
It has not yet undergone formal psychometric validation or clinical trials
It does not yet have peer-reviewed published evidence of its own validity or reliability as a screening tool

Appropriate use

The MIAF is intended to be used:

Alongside validated screening tools, including but not limited to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
By qualified healthcare professionals with relevant clinical training
As a framework to support clinical conversation and holistic assessment — not as a substitute for clinical judgement
In the context of NICE guideline NG201 (Antenatal and postnatal mental health) and relevant NHS perinatal mental health pathways

Any clinician using the MIAF does so as a supplement to their existing professional training, clinical judgement, and organisational governance frameworks. Use of the MIAF does not remove or reduce any professional or clinical responsibility.

What the MIAF is not

A validated diagnostic tool
A replacement for the EPDS, PHQ-9, GAD-7, or any other validated screening instrument
A substitute for specialist perinatal mental health assessment where clinically indicated
A tool approved by NICE, NHS England, or any regulatory body

Intellectual property

The MIAF, including its framework structure, domain definitions, assessment questions, scoring methodology, and all associated training materials, is the original intellectual property of Sharon Dawson ANP.

The MIAF may not be reproduced, adapted, distributed, or used commercially without the express written permission of Sharon Dawson ANP. Enquiries regarding licensing, research collaboration, or formal piloting should be directed to sharon@sharondawson.org.

Use of the MIAF in published research or policy documents requires attribution to: Dawson, S. (2025). Matrescence-Informed Assessment Framework (MIAF). Sharon Dawson ANP.

Training and familiarisation

Introductory training in the MIAF is available for clinical teams and organisations. This training is intended to support early familiarisation with matrescence-informed assessment and the principles underpinning the MIAF. It does not constitute formal certification or accreditation, and should be understood in the context of the framework's current pre-validation status.

Limitation of liability

Sharon Dawson ANP accepts no liability for clinical outcomes arising from the use of the MIAF by third parties. All clinicians using the MIAF remain individually responsible for their professional practice, clinical decisions, and compliance with their regulatory body's standards of conduct and competence.

Professional registration

Sharon Dawson is a registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. NMC Pin: 10C0050E. Registration is verifiable at nmc.org.uk.

Enquiries

For research collaboration, piloting enquiries, licensing, or any questions about the MIAF: sharon@sharondawson.org

For clinical implementation enquiries from NHS organisations or ICBs, please include your organisation name and the nature of your interest when making contact.