Neighbourhood Doulas advocate for local at-risk mothers

08 September 2025

Neighbourhood Doulas supports mothers facing complex challenges during their pregnancy and birth, including language barriers, unstable housing, domestic violence, racism or immigration concerns.

One mother shared how her Doula completely transformed her life, supporting her when she was struggling with her mental health: “I was alone, with prenatal depression and anxiety. Completely alone – no birthing partner and no family, but I had a Doula, and that’s what made the difference in having my voice heard, my needs listened to, and a different outcome to my birthing story.”

“I can't put in words how important it is to have someone who speaks on your behalf when you are vulnerable. I was in pain, I was ready to just give birth and sign the rights of my child away and here was my Doula advocating that my voice and needs be heard.”

“Having someone who was there for me was life-changing because now I’m a mom, and I have my son. I kept my child because all I needed was support at a time when I was drowning.”

With our funding they delivered free birth education classes for individuals referred by NHS safeguarding midwives, as well as one-to-one birth support for 10 women who might otherwise go through labour alone, offering interpretation support so women who speak little or no English can understand their rights, and make informed decisions about their bodies and their babies.

One of the Doulas shared: “This isn’t just about better birth outcomes, though those matter deeply. It’s about dignity. It’s about being seen and respected. It’s about breaking cycles of fear and disempowerment and replacing them with trust, agency, and hope.

“We’re proud to work alongside our local NHS safeguarding midwives, and with this funding, we can reach more women who need us most.”