What are the costs?

Recognised Antenatal / Birth doula

Usually charges a fixed price for the birth package to include all pre and post birth meetings. Clients should expect regional variations in fees reflecting local living costs, and should be aware that more experienced doulas may reasonably be expected to charge more than less experienced doulas in the same area. In addition, some doulas have other qualifications and skills which are taken account of in their fee structure. As all of our 'recognised' doulas have an independent practice and offer different packages, Doula Uk advises parents to contact individual doulas and discuss their services and fees.

Trainee doulas are required under the terms of their membership of Doula UK to charge less: Currently Doula UK requires trainees to charge no more than £200 per birth until after they have attended four births and achieved 'Recognition' by a Doula UK assessor.

A deposit (retainer fee) is also often required which covers the 'on call' period and pre and post birth meetings. Some doulas accept monthly payments or reduced fee depending on the circumstances.

Recognised Postnatal doula

Usually charges an hourly fee and may require a minimum booking of 3 or 4hours per session (sometimes mileage is extra). A deposit is also generally required.

Trainee postnatal doulas are required by Doula UK to charge no more than £10 an hour until they have completed four postnatal placements an achieved 'recognition' by a Doula UK assessor.

Trainee Doulas

Trainee doulas are required under the terms of their membership of Doula UK to charge a trainee rate of no more than £200 for their expenses per birth until they have attended a minimum of four births and achieved 'Recognition' by a Doula UK Assessor.

Trainee postnatal doulas are required by Doula UK to charge no more than £10 an hour for their expenses until they have completed a minimum of four 20 hour postnatal placements and achieved 'Recognition' by a Doula UK Assessor.

If there are exceptional circumstances - for example late night taxis for the doula's safety - these should simply be declared.

Hardship Fund

We also have a hardship fund for those who would like to employ a doula but feel they are unable to pay for her services. For more information click here