Who gets to have one?

At the moment we offer a Pregnancy Pal or Birth Buddy to any expectant parent living in the Thurrock or West Basildon areas. It might mean just a helping hand, some guidance, useful information or reassurance.

Birth Buddies can provide support during pregnancy, labour and birth and are for mothers with a particular need such as social isolation, cultural and language barriers, facing domestic abuse, drug and alcohol misuse etc. The Birth Buddy will stay with the mother throughout her labour and birth either at home or in hospital and will be on 24 hour call for one month around the due date.

Pregnancy Pals offer more all-round support to both expectant parents but don’t attend the birth. 

Both roles involve one-to-one support such as home visits or meeting up at an agreed location. We also chat to expectant parents at a variety of locations in the community or offer group support. We find out about useful local services on offer such as antenatal health care and children’s centres activities, sharing information and encouraging take up.

If you feel that you could benefit from our service please fill in a self-referral form or contact us direct.