Cash boost for service that helps new mums

Thanks to a cash injection from the Big Lottery Fund the Snowdrop Doula Community Interest Company can run the pilot project that will offer continuous one to one doula support throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond.

A doula is someone who can provide emotional and physical support to families to ease their transition into parenthood. They can provide a range of services, from helping with other children to nurturing and supporting the mother. It is not a medical post and does not replace the midwife but is there as a constant source of support.

Michelle Bromley, the executive director of Snowdrop Doula, a non profit making company based in Brierfield, said: “We believe that all women and families should have access to support they wish for and that all women’s wishes surrounding their pregnancy, labour and beyond should be listened to and respected.

“A Doula helps provide one constant person to which a women can talk to and work through her feelings. Being independent means they can explore feelings with parents throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond. This leads to a more relaxed experience and better outcomes for both mother and baby which then positively impacts wider family and community.’’

The doula will be on call from 37 weeks until birth to provide continuous support throughout labour and birth. Postnatally a doula will help the mum feel settled and find solutions to any difficulties they may be experiencing with a newborn.

The business was set up in April last year and along with the doula service antenatal classes are also being held in Burnley and Colne thanks to support from the NHS East Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Group. If you would like more information log onto www.snowdropdoula.co.uk or contact Michelle on 07931214574.