Hello, I am Bella, I am a mummy of 3 girls - Tabitha, Willemina (Mouse!) and Phoebe. I live in Boxford, Suffolk, with my husband and dogs, Toastie & Teasel. I finished work as an Executive Assistant in London having worked for an International Pension Fund for many years. Following my journey into motherhood, I became increasingly intrigued about birth and all the elements that exist around it, and this led me to study, The Developing Doulas Birth and Postnatal Doula Preparation Course. The course, as well as my own experiences, enlightened me as to how much of an empowering and incredible journey pregnancy, childbirth and motherhood can be; long before completing my course I was already providing support, comfort to friends far and wide enabling them to navigate their own way on this magical journey and so becoming a Doula seemed a logical next step in my career path. With my studies and knowledge now deepened; I am ready to support you, and your birth partner, through one of life’s biggest and most exciting transitions! As part of my ongoing training and development, in the Spring of 2023 I trained to be an Infant Feeding Peer Supporter in association with Barnado's and now volunteer weekly at local community groups as well at my local hospital on the maternity wards. In addition to this, I attended Molly O'Brien's ''Biomechanics for Birth'' course, which furthered my understanding and ability to deal with obstructed labour and to help reduce discomfort using Rebozo techniques. I am a member of an amazing volunteering group - Doulas without Borders– offering accessible, grassroot services to women and childbearing people experiencing multiple disadvantage and financial hardship during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. My services are tailored to meet your needs. From pregnancy through to those precious few weeks with your newborn, I have something for you. Furthermore, I also allow for flexibility within my packages because everyone’s pregnancy, birth journey and family situation is so individual. If you feel we could work together then please get in touch for an initial consultation either face to face or via video call at no charge.   www.bellathebirthkeeper.co.uk   I look forward to hearing from you! Bella xxx 

Relevant Training

 - Developing Doula's - Birth and Postnatal Doula Preparation Course - 2021 -Laid Back Feeding Workshop with Maddie McMahon -2022 -Infant Feeding Peer Supporter training with Barnados - 2023 -SANDS’s - Supporting families through pregnancy loss and the death of a baby training -2023 - Biomechanics of Birth training in Norwich with Molly O’Brien - 2023 -Introduction training to Peanut Ball - 2023   

My Offerings

BUMP & BIRTH I will be there for you, to support and guide you through your pregnancy however you may need it. My service as a Doula will include: -Three antenatal planning meetings - to get to know one other; for me to learn more about your pregnancy; and to discuss your birth plan and preferences. - "On Call" - Available by phone 24 hours a day from 38 weeks gestation to attend your birth. - 2 Postnatal visits: 1x prearranged meeting to review your birth within two weeks of labour and a second follow up visit to be mutually arranged. - Attendance to any of your antenatal maternity appointments. -Unlimited email, phone, video call support until 6 weeks post birth. This package is based on travel within a 15 mile radius of CO10. £950 Should your chosen location and/or hospital be further away than this, then my travel charges will be applied, as per my contract.   BONDING & BEYOND My role as a postnatal Doula can vary from family to family, depending on what the family require, whether I am at the birth or not I can offer: - Emotional and practical guidance- for example suggesting local mother/baby groups you could join. - Taking your child off your hands whilst both parents can rest and concentrate on themselves. -  As an Infant Feeding Peer Supporter, I will support you to find solutions to common infant feeding issues enabling more you to reach your feeding goals. - Light house work, as well as cooking and running local errands (within a ten mile radius). - Assistance with other siblings including their homework and supervision at meal times (if applicable to your family). - Sometimes a cup or tea and a chat can be what some new mummies need! - Signposting to extra support such as lactation consultant, tongue tie specialists, and sleep help. This is based on travel within a 15 mile radius of CO10. £20 per hour (ad hoc) or £180 for a ten hour block booking. Should your chosen location be further away than this then my travel charges will be applied as per my contract. OVER NIGHT SUPPORT I also offer overnight support, which lasts 12 hours from my arrival time. You might have a child who isn't sleeping; you and your partner want a night off, or you simply just need an extra pair of hands.  Whatever your requirements I am here to help! All the timings are flexible and can be adjusted to suit your requirements. This package lasts for 12 hours from my arrival time and is based on travel within a 15 mile radius of CO10. £220 Should your chosen location be further away than this, then my travel charges will be applied, as per my contract.