Doulas Without Borders

At Doulas Without Borders, our UK-wide network of voluntary doulas provides women and birthing people who have experienced trauma and are in financial hardship with the companionship, physical, emotional and educational support needed during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. Doulas do not offer medical advice or apply clinical measures, but do offer a wealth of knowledge about birth. We help people to have a positive experience by providing information, support, and encouragement—without judgment. Doulas are there to support the whole family unit, when appropriate. We do not attempt to mirror the role of any other supporter, but to empower all towards a positive outcome. Our presence can help alleviate isolation during pregnancy and labour and assist in early parenting settling in. Having a more positive experience of pregnancy and birth contributes to the potential for bonding and attachment between parent and baby. Building resilience during this time is best achieved through a strong bond with the mother, which provides baby with a crucial step towards a healthy and balanced adult life. We accept referrals on behalf of people from 6 months of pregnancy or within the first 6 weeks of the postnatal period, who are in isolation, or unsupported, in disadvantage and in financial hardship*. ​Our Doula services are available to any woman/person who is experiencing financial hardship* and is:​ At affect of domestic / intimate partner violence and / or sexual violence Experiencing homelessness A survivor / victim of human trafficking Under 20 years old and unsupported A survivor / victim of rape With refugee / recent asylum seeking status At least one of the above and experiencing or preparing for baby loss. Our Doula services are available to any woman/person who is experiencing financial by loss. *We define financial hardship as without funds beyond basic accommodation and living expenses. How it Works ​Step 1: Referral Our service works through a referral system. Women/people should ask a health or social care professional, a community member who can vouch for them, or a support worker to fill out the referral form on their behalf. We accept referrals for women and people during pregnancy or within the first 6 weeks of the postnatal period. We can only offer support if the person is in extreme financial hardship,which we define as without funds beyond accommodation and food. For those who are experiencing a more borderline financial hardship, we suggest women apply for a low cost Doula via Doula UK. Once we have received your referral form, we will consult our Doulas Without Borders Directory to find a match based on your geographical location and specific needs of your nominee. We tend to create a team of supporters around each client, rather than just one Doula. We then assign a lead Doula based on experience and availability and the whole team is also supported by one of our Community Elders. We have a highly skilled team of specialist Consultants who are also available for each team, on request.