SUPPORTING CHILDBEARING WOMEN & PEOPLE EXPERIENCING DISADVANTAGE
WHO WE ARE
Doulas Without Borders is a UK wide network of volunteers offering accessible, grassroots services to women and childbearing people experiencing multiple disadvantage and financial hardship during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.
Our focus is on providing the emotional, physical and informational support which is crucial during pregnancy, birth and early mother/parenthood.
A calm, supported mother or parent who is able to bond with their baby moves society one step closer to a resilient, connected and well-adapted next generation.
Who We Support
We provide accessible pregnancy, birth and postnatal support for people in financial hardship who are, for example:
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Survivors and victims of domestic/sexual violence
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Experiencing displacement and people seeking refuge/asylum
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Experiencing homelessness
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Experiencing/expecting to experience pregnancy or infant loss
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Aged under 20, without adequate support
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Survivors and victims of trafficking and modern-day slavery
We accept referrals on a case-by-case basis, so please contact us if you think someone needs support but doesn't meet any of the above criteria.
Our Mission
To provide support, education and advocacy for pregnant, birthing and newly mothering women in disadvantage, as a means to foster and facilitate more positive birth experiences, encourage robust attachment and build positive change for future generations.
What We Believe
Women and birthing people who have experienced trauma and disadvantage deserve extra support and advocacy in the childbearing year.
Pregnant people who have been through abuse, trauma and multiple disadvantage are being further traumatised in childbirth.
By supporting those in disadvantage during this key time we can help break cycles of trauma into the next generation.
Our Approach
We are working towards the improvement of outcomes in the childbearing year for those who have experienced trauma and disadvantage, as a means to contribute towards positive change in society, for both current and future generations.
WHAT IS DOULA SUPPORT?
A Doula ensures pregnant women and people receive continuity of care with a friendly face at a vulnerable time. We also provide education to support informed choice, signposting to services and 'on the ground' companionship, which can greatly assist in a positive experience of childbirth and early bonding.
Doulas do not offer medical advice or apply clinical measures, but do offer a wealth of knowledge about birth. We help people to have a positive experience by providing information, support, and encouragement - without judgment.
Doulas are there to support the whole family unit, when appropriate. We do not attempt to mirror the role of any other supporter, but to empower all towards a positive outcome. Our presence can help alleviate isolation during pregnancy and labour and assist in early parenting settling in.
Having a more positive experience of pregnancy and birth contributes to the potential for bonding and attachment between parent and baby. Building resilience during this time is best achieved through a strong bond with the mother, which provides baby with a crucial step towards a healthy and balanced adult life.
At Doulas Without Borders, our UK-wide network of voluntary doulas provides women and birthing people who have experienced trauma and are in financial hardship with the companionship, physical, emotional and educational support needed during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.
OUR PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS
