For as long as I can remember, I have loved babies and when I was 11 years old, I made the decision that my future would involve working with babies and young children.

After leaving school in 1985, I was thrilled to take up a place on the NNEB course at Eastbourne Arts and Technology College. In 1987 I qualified and couldn”t wait to start work; since then my posts have included a live-in nanny in France, a nursery school teacher working for the local education authority and a nursery nurse in a private nursery.

I had my first baby in December 1989 and the birth was a great experience, although it certainly was a shock to the system, being just 20 years old at the time.

In 1994 I joined the supply list for nursery nurses. I immediately found work in a special school and really enjoyed it. I later worked at mainstream schools with children who had physical disabilities and during my career I have worked with children aged 9 weeks to 18 years.

I had my second baby in 2000 and during this pregnancy I first became aware of the role of a Doula, even though I did not take advantage of this life-enhancing concept at the time. I was fortunate to have excellent support from my midwives and had my baby in a traditional midwifery led unit, staying at home for most of my labour and only being admitted to hospital an hour-and-a-half before giving birth.

Recently I left the education system to work as a family support worker, a move which reinforced my desire to become a Doula, especially as I enjoy caring for families of children with special needs and enjoy making their lives a little easier. I also do light housework for the families and this can be offered as part of my role as a Post-Natal Doula, if required.

I hope this gives some insight into my personality and the varied experiences I have had in my career and in life. I hope you will be in touch if you are thinking of employing a Doula or would like to discuss the service in more detail.