The Doula Access Fund provides free support during pregnancy, labour and after the birth of a baby to those experiencing disadvantage and financial hardship. Each applicant is referred to us by a health care professional, social worker or charitable partner.
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If you are a health professional or represent a charitable partner you may make a referral to the Doula Access Fund. We work with various agencies and charitable partners including those who provide services including maternity, mental health, refugee and domestic violence.
We believe that everyone has a right to have a positive and supported birth experience and to the best possible start in life.
Doula UK is uniquely placed with excellent infrastructure, financial stability and with a membership of 700 trained and skilled doulas across the UK to provide doula support through the Doula Access Fund.
Eligibility:
Please refer anyone you feel would benefit from doula support either for birth or in the postnatal period who is;
- experiencing financial hardship*
and fills one or more of the following criteria;
- Lone parent
- Black or Asian
- Mental health diagnosis
- Fleeing domestic violence
- Homeless or in temporary housing
- In the Social Work system
- Registered disability
- Survivor of trafficking or abuse
*Proof of receipt of benefits or no recourse to public funds will be required.
Apply to the Doula Access Fund
Once an application has been approved, the parent may select an experienced and trained birth doula from our list, who can visit them at home during pregnancy and be their companion during labour and birth as a constant support. This is particularly impactful to the majority of applicants who are facing the trauma of being isolated in their pregnancy and would have given birth alone.
A parent can alternatively choose to select a postnatal doula who will support them and their baby in the first six weeks following the birth. The doula can help with breastfeeding or support in other ways to help facilitate a nurturing bond between the parent and baby.
The doula is there as a continuous emotional and physical support and gives kind and respectful non-judgemental care. The aim is to empower and give confidence to the parent to make the best, informed choices about how to care for their baby. Doulas do not give clinical advice. Doulas have a wide network and can signpost new families to free services in the area such as baby groups and postnatal depression services. Doula UK Access Fund Doulas have all completed approved Doula UK training and have a current DBS.
Disclaimer: Doula UK do not accept any responsibility or liability should there be adverse outcomes either to the birthing person or to their baby through engagement of a doula through the Doula UK Access Fund. Doula UK does not act as an agent of the doula who is a self-employed person. Doulas are not trained to give clinical assistance or advice and do not replace the care of your doctor or midwife.
Please Read Our Guide to the Access Fund for Clients and Referrers
