My name is Lena, I live in Guildford with my husband. Together we have two children, George (born 2001) and Libby (born 2004). We had a lively Springer Spaniel called Oscar who sadly passed at the age of 15 in 2024.

I have been working as a Doula since 2016 and have helped and supported many families on my journey. Previously I worked for 8 years as a nursery nurse part time on Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at my local hospital.  A huge part of my role was parent craft which enabled me to help, support, teach and encourage new parents in the care of their baby/babies. I really enjoyed getting to know the parents and extended families, sharing my skills and knowledge enabling parents to be confident in every aspect of their babies care.

On a voluntary basis I used to help run a support group called Positive Touch. This was for all families that had gone through SCBU with premature or sick term babies. I found  this extremely rewarding and it provided me with skills and understanding of older children as as well as babies. I enjoyed getting hands on in these sessions and helping with arts and crafts and entertaining older children.

As an experienced Postnatal Doula I can share all the skills I have gained being a Doula,  Sister, Mother, Auntie and in my role on SCBU. I have worked with first, second and third time parents giving varied and individualised support. I am experienced in teaching all aspects of new-born care including, bathing, holding baby correctly, establishing feeds (breast or bottle), winding methods and calming techniques. I have lots of knowledge with feeding, TT, Jaundice and reflux to hopefully spot any issues that arise and signpost to the relevant HCP. I am happy to look after siblings, run errands, walk dogs, and do light housework and cooking. I will look after your new baby and / or siblings so you can shower, rest or attend appointments.

I love being a Postnatal Doula, supporting families, working together using my experience to help parents become confident and happy is what I aim to achieve. I will always respect your parenting choices and am not in my role to judge. Most of all, I would like to be able to support you in your new and sometimes daunting journey of becoming a parent. I will do all I can to help and support you and your family in becoming confident and fulfilled with your new-born, until you no longer need me.

I am also available for Breastfeeding help and support. This can be just a one off visit or as many as you need to feel confident and happy with your breastfeeding baby. I have helped and supported many mums establish and continue to breastfeed after birthing term and premature babies.

I offer flexible hours and duties to be agreed and to suit your needs. 

Training:

Tongue-tie Matters - Sarah Oakley 

Post-Natal Mental health Study Day

Younique Postnatal Doula Initial Preparation Course

NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care

UNICEF Breastfeeding and Lactation Management Course along with breastfeeding study days (in house at RSCH)

Paediatric and Adult resus trained (in house RSCH)

I am fully insured and have a current DBS

Please get in touch by email if you think I can support you and your family. My charges as a Doula are £24 per hour (plus travel depending on area). 

Testimonial's:

     “Lena is an absolute lifesaver. I decided to hire a doula for 6 weeks after the birth of my second daughter because I really struggled with the intensity of the first few weeks after the birth of my first. My baby is 6 months old and Lena is still with us because she is so wonderful. Not only is she hugely knowledgable about anything and everything baby, birth, breastfeeding or post partum related, she’s also the loveliest person you’ll meet. Both my daughters adore her (as do my dogs) and she has provided me with the most wonderful support throughout. I’m so grateful to get to experience being a mum to a baby a second time - and this time I get to enjoy and cherish it without all the anxiety and stress I had the first time around. Lena was the biggest part of making that possible”

Daniella & Family

      “Lena has fast become an extension of our family. Her warm, caring nature and invaluable experience has helped with adjusting to being a new mum. Having someone to give support with no judgement has been golden. Our little girl loves her time with Lena. She has been key to getting us on the road to Ophelia’s milestones and knowing that, makes being able to leave the house ok. Her pearls of wisdom have been a lifeline and immense support for our family.”

Sam & Family

     “Lena was absolutely instrumental in enabling us to survive (and thrive!) post partum. Lena offered phenomenal support, empathy, and guidance from the very first day, and empowered us with skills, knowledge and confidence as we embarked on our parenting journey. We wholeheartedly recommend Lena, and can’t wait for Lena’s support for our next little one!”

Donna & Family 

     “Lena helped me with both of my sons and I’m so glad we found her. She was so helpful with both practical and emotional support, with stacks of advice on feeding (breastfeeding and bottle, and later weaning), baby’s development and general baby care. But she was also amazing looking after me as a new mother too, making sure I was as happy, relaxed and well-rested as possible. I’d highly recommend her!”

Alice & Family