Frequently Asked Questions
What are the aims of Bradford Doulas?
Bradford Doulas aims to:
- Provide non-judgmental, consistent, tailored and personalised care to expectant families.
- Enable informed decision making by supporting equitable access to evidence-based information for women, birthing people and their families.
- Train, nurture and support local women to become volunteer doulas, ensuring they feel supported, valued, involved and have opportunities for development.
- Develop positive working relationships between relevant statutory and community sector services to provide holistic and inclusive support.
Who funds the training and why?
The NHS funds Bradford Doulas via the Integrated Care Board (ICB). Bradford Volunteer Doulas is funded primarily to support women and birthing people who are more likely to experience poor maternal outcomes and may experience barriers to accessing equitable care.
What geographical area do you cover as a Doula?
We support families around central Bradford and slightly further afield. We are funded to work in areas with high levels of deprivation, often around central Bradford.
Keighley Central – this is an area we want to expand into and are keen to train doulas who live in the Keighley area.
Do Bradford Doulas support/train in Keighley?
Currently, we do not have capacity to offer training in Keighley, but we would love to build a pool of Keighley-based volunteer doulas to support women and birthing people in Keighley Central.
Training Information
Where and when does the training take place?
Where: Bradford Doulas, Unit 24 Carlisle Business Centre, Bradford, BD8 8BD
When: Usually two rounds of training per year:
- Autumn: September – December
- Spring: March – July
How many training sessions are there?
10 weeks of training, with 2 sessions per week, 9.30am – 2.30pm.
Who delivers the training?
Training sessions are delivered by Bradford Doulas staff, local midwives, infant feeding leads, public health leads and domestic abuse trainers.
How is the training accredited?
Training is delivered by Bradford Doulas. We are an accredited training centre under the Quality Licence Scheme, part of the Skills and Education Group.
What qualification will I obtain?
Award in Bradford Volunteer Doulas Certificate at QLS Level 3.
What is the UCAS value?
Unfortunately, the Level 3 certificate does not carry UCAS points.
Can I do the training remotely?
No, all core training is delivered in person.
What happens if I cannot make it to all the training sessions?
We understand that life happens. If you are unable to attend a session, please speak to us as early as possible so we can discuss options and ensure you are able to meet the course requirements.
Practical Questions
Do I need to bring lunch with me?
No, lunch is provided (please inform us of any dietary requirements or allergies).
Do I need my own computer?
No. You may complete assignments by hand, or we can loan a Chromebook on a short-term basis. Having your own device can be helpful.
Can I bring my child/ren?
Babes-in-arms are very welcome. Babies and children who are mobile are more challenging in the training space. We can support with the cost of childcare to help you access training if required.
Can I get help with travel costs?
Yes. Travel to and from training and volunteering will be reimbursed.
Do I need to drive to volunteer?
No, but you must be able to travel independently to training, families’ homes and hospital settings within required timeframes.
Applying
How do I apply to train as a Bradford Volunteer Doula?
- Attend an Open Day
- Submit an application
- Invitation to interview
Please note: training and volunteering with us is a significant commitment and may not be right for everyone.
Who can apply to train as a Volunteer with Bradford Doulas?
We welcome people from all backgrounds, races, religions, no faith, sexualities and gender identities.
We welcome applications from all women (cis and trans+) and also welcome non-binary, intersex and gender non-conforming people who share lived experience of women’s issues or birthing and are comfortable in a space that centres women.
Can I train if I don’t live in Bradford?
You must be able to travel easily to our training space (Carlisle Business Centre, BD8) and reach BRI Maternity Unit within 30 minutes from your home.
Do I need any other qualifications to do the training?
Not necessarily. Experience of Level 3 study (or similar) is beneficial. You must be able to read and write fluent English.
Do I need to provide a reference?
Yes. Successful applicants will be asked to provide at least one reference.
Do I need to complete an identity check?
Yes. You will need to complete an identity check and an enhanced DBS check before qualifying.
After Qualification
What are the expectations after training?
We ask that you support a minimum of three families and/or volunteer with us for two years after qualifying.
Will I get paid?
No. This is a volunteer role. Agreed travel expenses are reimbursed.
Can I volunteer if I am in receipt of benefits?
Yes. However, you are responsible for informing your benefits advisor or Jobcentre and understanding how volunteering may affect your circumstances.
Can I train as a private doula?
This training is designed specifically for the volunteer doula role in Bradford. Some skills are transferable, and some volunteers later undertake additional training to work privately alongside volunteering.
How am I supported as a Doula with complex cases?
You will receive ongoing support from Bradford Doulas staff and work with a case worker as your main point of contact for each family you support.
What if I don’t like the role?
We understand that volunteering is not the right fit for everyone. We encourage reflection throughout training and will have supportive conversations if you feel the role is not right for you.
Own healing journey
Many people are drawn to doula work because of their own experiences. Your lived experience is valuable; however, it is important that you feel emotionally ready to support others. Training can bring up personal experiences, and support is available throughout.
