Doula Of The Month - July

​Introducing Gillian Owen-Bennett, BirthBliss Doula Of The Month, July 2018.

I live in Devon but also work in London. I have six children and seven grandchildren and I’m currently studying for a degree in nutrition and also studying with the NCT with a focus on breastfeeding. I have been a birth and postnatal Mentored Doula for a year and a therapist for 14 years working, with infertility clients for massage and reflexology and the occasional lifestyle once over. I also work part time in an office.

What inspired you to become a doula?
A childhood ambition to be a midwife but not following that path and deciding to remain a nursing assistant and have children instead.

What did you do for a living before becoming a doula and if so, how has this helped you when working as a doula?
I was a nursing assistant and a support worker.

What has been the highlight of your doula career so far?
Watching another grandchild born this time being there as their doula and not just mum and nana.

What have you found the most difficult?
Helping someone who believed they would have a still birth.

Can you share one lesson you have learnt through your work as a doula?
Never unappreciate sleep ever again!

What is the one essential item you can't be without in your doula kit?
My essential oil kit as well as rescue remedy.

And finally, what would be your one piece of advice to a woman who is considering training as a doula?
It’s not for the faint hearted but it is awe inspiring.