Katy Haines

About Me

Hello! Welcome to wherever you are on your family’s journey!

I’ve learnt a lot since becoming a mum twelve years ago. I was unaware of what a doula was back then, and planned a homebirth but ended up with an induced labour. Looking back I really wish I’d had a doula to talk through my options! With my second baby I was more intentional in building a ‘support team’ around me and chose to have a doula, who brought me wisdom and calm. I had the home water birth experience I wanted; honestly one of the most empowering things I’ve ever done!

My background is in teaching and childminding. Having moved around a bit, we are now settled in Mere. I walk my slightly bonkers dog (am working on training her!); I am a homebody who loves reading somewhere cosy; I love a cup of tea and a catch up with a good friend; I find my calm in nature.

I have a deep need to do meaningful work and connect with people and have hugely enjoyed the postnatal volunteering I have done with NCT and through breastfeeding peer supporting at baby ‘cafes’ over the years. I have plenty of personal breastfeeding experience but will always support you to feed your baby as you choose.

As your doula I will tailor our sessions to your needs. Every pregnancy and birth is unique. I will help you take the time you need to process information and make decisions. I am there to support you to have a positive birth experience.  I can be a helping hand in the first postnatal days and weeks.

We all need care and support, especially at times of transition. I believe the world needs more connection, joy, rest, care – and I believe having doula support is a great start for the amazing relationship you’re going to have with your baby.

I absolutely loved the training I did with Kaz Woodbury of Continuum Doulas. We covered everything from the magic of placentas to the growth of baby’s brain. It certainly got the oxytocin flowing! I am also training further on birth debriefs and breastfeeding support.

I offer a Continuum Doula Full package of six antenatal sessions with you, support during your labour and birth, and 12 hours of flexible postnatal support.

I also offer a Postnatal package, which includes meeting you at least twice before the birth and 12 hours of flexible postnatal support.

Please get in touch if you would like a no-obligations chat about your needs or to ask any questions. I look forward to hearing from you!

Some words from people I have supported previously:

Katy’s calm and gentle manner was exactly what I needed when I began my parenting and breastfeeding journey. I particularly liked that she was really encouraging, but without seeming pushy or that there was only one approach. I felt growing confidence in my journey with our baby and supported to find our best way as a family.    Julie

Katy’s support and advice was invaluable during the early stages of my breastfeeding journey. She was such a calm, reassuring presence and always able to offer helpful advice and guidance.   Alex

Katy supported me at Brasserie (baby café group) after having my third baby. Even though I had breastfed my older children, I still needed guidance and reassurance, and Katy was an amazing listener! She gave unbiased advice and we ended up becoming good friends. She is a calm, friendly and lovely lady.    Kim