A project offering emotional support to Bradford mums with pregnancy, birth and motherhood has turned 12 years old. 

A volunteer Doula is a ‘professional friend’, supporting women and birthing people to make positive choices, accompany them to appointments, provide practical support at the birth, and build positive relationships with other services.

The project was initially funded by Bradford City Clinical Commissioning Group 12 years ago.

It was later enhanced as part of the Reducing Inequalities in Communities (RIC) programme, run by Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership.

The Bradford Doulas team celebrated the milestone by inviting volunteer doulas and families to a special birthday party. 

Held at Carlisle Business Centre, the event was attended by 155 people as well as ten other community organisations and companies. 

Families also enjoyed a performance from the Bradford Friendship Choir. 

JKN foodbank handed out 46 food parcels to families while nearly 200 eco nappies were distributed, thanks to Bradford Council.

Evidence shows that where a woman or birthing person receives continuous support before the birth, during birth and after the birth, they are more likely to have positive birthing experiences.

Research also indicates pairing families with a doula from the same ethnic, linguistic or religious background helps improve care. 

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer doula should email Bradford Doulas via info@bradforddouals.org.uk