Hull’s Doula Project and Breastfeeding Peer Support Service has published an impact report which sets out what a difference they have made to people in Hull.
The service, run by the Goodwin Trust, is commissioned by Hull City Council to support women in the city.
The Doula project provides 1:1 emotional and practical support to women from late pregnancy, during labour (if required) and for up to 6 weeks postnatally. The Breastfeeding Peer Support Project (BFPS) provides breastfeeding support throughout pregnancy and beyond.
Their fully trained volunteers empower women to make their own informed choices and decisions by providing a wealth of knowledge and information. Their dedicated volunteer team can be accessed via hospital wards, midwife clinics, community groups, home visits and their helpline.
Since launch in 2005, they have supported thousands of women.
Their latest report highlights the incredible feedback they’ve received from women who’ve had their support.
One mum who received support said: “Fantastic support, staff go above and beyond and offer so much support, whether that be a phone call, message or visits. Always have your best interests at heart, the ladies are so kind and compassionate and very knowledgeable. There were many times in the early days I thought I couldn’t do, it but I did and I’m still feeding, but things could have been so different if it wasn’t for their encouragement and support.”
The team are always looking for new volunteers, who receive full training on becoming a Breastfeeding Peer Supporter or Volunteer Doula.
One of their newly trained Doulas said: ““I have learnt so much about pregnancy, birth and how amazing women are. This training has been wonderful and I can’t wait to support women and apply what I have learnt.”
The team can be reached at the Fenchurch Family Hub on 01482 497 811, calling the Breastfeeding Peer Support Project helpline on 07980 731 013, or by visiting their Facebook page.
