How Much Do Doulas Earn in the UK?

If you're exploring the idea of becoming a doula in the UK, one of the most common questions that pops up, often after the excitement and calling has taken root, is, “Can I actually earn a living doing this?”

In other words, how much do doulas earn in the UK?

It’s a fair question, and one I get asked a lot. After all, this is more than a passion project for most of us. You might be hoping to leave a job that doesn’t fill your soul, contribute more financially at home, or create a lifestyle with more flexibility and meaning.

Yes, being a doula is deeply rewarding, but that doesn’t mean the financial side should be ignored. So, let’s break it down together: the fees, the earnings, the real-life examples, and all the bits no one tells you about managing your time, your value, and your income.

Because it's not just about the money, but the truth is, money gives you choices. And choices give you freedom.

Understanding the Role of a Self-Employed Doula

First, it's important to understand that working as a doula in the UK is a self-employed role. That means there’s no fixed doula salary or NHS pay band. You set your own hours, your own pricing, and decide how many clients you want to support. That flexibility is brilliant, but it also means that what you earn will depend on your confidence, clarity, and consistency.

Some doulas work part-time around family commitments. Others build full-time practices, take on multiple clients per month, and diversify their offerings. And the beauty of it is, both are completely valid.

So, let’s look at the numbers, starting with what doulas actually charge.

Doula Pricing in the UK: What Clients Pay

When you’re setting your fees, it’s helpful to know what the typical ranges are. The amounts vary based on experience, location, and the type of support being offered.

Birth Doula Package Fees

For a full birth doula package, which usually includes at least two antenatal sessions, on-call support for a few weeks, attendance at the birth, and a postnatal visit, fees in the UK typically range from £1,200 to £2,500.

Some highly experienced doulas in London or with specialised expertise charge up to £3,500 or more. This fee reflects not just the time spent at the birth itself, but the hours of preparation, emotional labour, and being available day and night during the on-call period.

Postnatal Doula Hourly Rate

Postnatal doula work is usually priced hourly, and fees vary depending on experience and geography. Most UK doulas charge between £20 and £35 per hour, though in some areas of London, fees of £40 to £50 per hour are common. Most postnatal doulas will charge expenses, such as travel and parking, on top of this.

Sessions usually last between 2 and 4 hours, and many postnatal doulas work with families over a series of weeks or even months.

Night Doula Rates

Night support is usually a flat rate for around 8 to 10 hours. Most doulas charge from £150 to £250 per night, and this can go higher for multiples or for experienced doulas who take full responsibility for baby care overnight while the parent sleeps.

Antenatal and Planning Services

Some doulas also offer standalone services like birth preparation sessions, antenatal planning calls, or virtual support packages. These are typically priced between £60 and £150, depending on length, format, and what’s included.

Remember: That’s Gross Income, Not Profit

It’s really important to note that these fees are before tax and business expenses. Like any self-employed person, you’ll need to factor in your costs, things like:

• Transport and parking

• Insurance

• Website and marketing

• Materials and supplies (think: snacks, oils, handouts)

• Ongoing training and CPD

• Admin time

• Supervision or doula coaching

• Tax and National Insurance contributions

This is why tracking your time and knowing your numbers is so helpful. It helps you understand what you’re actually earning, not just what’s coming in.

Real-Life Doula Income Examples (UK)

To make this all a bit more tangible, here are three realistic examples of what doulas in the UK might earn. These are gross figures, before tax and expenses, but give a general picture of what’s possible.

Emma - Part-Time Postnatal Doula in Manchester

Emma supports one or two families each month and works three mornings a week.

• Charges £25 per hour

• Works 3 hours per session

• 3 sessions per week = £225

• 4 weeks = £900

• Runs a monthly online postnatal planning session = £200

Total gross income per month: £1,100 | Estimated take-home after costs: £800

Emma isn’t working full-time, and that’s intentional. She loves the work, has time for her own family, and earns what she needs.

Shanice - Full-Time Birth Doula in London

Shanice supports two births per month and offers some postnatal care too.

• Charges £1,600 per birth

• Two births/month = £3,200

• Postnatal hours (20 at £35/hour) = £700

• Offers online course/mentoring = £400

Total gross income per month: £4,300 | Estimated take-home after costs: £3,100–£3,300

Shanice works full-time, blocks off holidays each year, and has a clear system for tracking income and setting aside money for tax. Her business feels solid and sustainable.

Abi - New Doula in Norfolk

Abi has supported three births in her first year and is slowly growing her client base.

• Charges £850 per birth

• One birth every 2 months = £425 average/month

• Postnatal support (10 hours/month at £20/hour) = £200

Total gross income per month: £625 |Estimated take-home after costs: £450–£500

Abi’s income isn’t high yet, but she’s building experience, reputation, and confidence. And she’s already seeing how valued her support is by the families she helps.

How Many Clients Do Doulas Support?

This really depends on your availability and lifestyle. A birth doula might only support one or two clients per month, especially if they offer in-depth support. Remember, you're on-call 24/7 for weeks, and births can be long.

A postnatal doula might work with two to four families at a time, depending on the hours involved. Night doulas often take on 3 to 5 nights per week, depending on energy levels.

The beauty of it is, you choose. You can scale up or down based on what works for you and your life.

The Truth About Doula Work and Financial Fulfilment

Now, let’s say the quiet part out loud. Being a doula is not a get-rich-quick career. You’re unlikely to be pulling in six figures in your first year, and that’s OK.

What you can build is a meaningful, values-based career that brings in consistent income and fits beautifully around your life. You can work in a way that doesn’t leave you drained, do something that aligns with your heart, and earn a living while making a difference.

That’s what we call a win-win.

Practical Tips for Growing Your Doula Income

1. Know Your Worth

Start by acknowledging the value of what you offer. You’re not just showing up, you’re holding space, providing continuity, and offering emotional and practical care that is life-changing for many families. Price accordingly.

2. Build Clear Packages

When clients understand what’s included, they’re more likely to book. Include your antenatal visits, on-call time, WhatsApp support, birth attendance, and postnatal follow-up clearly in your offering.

3. Offer Payment Plans

Make your services more accessible by offering payment plans. Many doulas allow clients to spread payments over three months or align them with maternity leave dates.

4. Add Passive Income or Extras

If you’re interested, you might create printable birth prep tools, audio relaxations, eBooks, or even courses for new parents. These can run alongside your 1-to-1 work and provide additional income.

5. Keep Track

Use a simple spreadsheet or a tool like Xero, Coconut or QuickBooks to track your income and expenses. Knowing your numbers is empowering. It helps you set realistic goals and make clear decisions.

Doula Training UK: An Investment in Your Future

If you’re just at the start of your journey and wondering how to become a doula in the UK, it all starts with the right doula training.

At The BirthBliss Academy, our courses are designed to support you not just in learning the practical skills of birth and postnatal support but in finding your confidence, building your identity as a doula, and setting up a business that works for you.

You’ll be part of a community that lifts you up, holds space for your growth, and helps you feel equipped, not just inspired.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Paycheck

So, how much do doulas earn in the UK? The answer is: as much as you want, within the framework of what your energy, capacity, and goals allow. Some doulas earn a few hundred pounds a month part-time. Others bring in several thousand. Most of us sit somewhere in between.

But the real wealth comes from knowing you’re doing work that matters. That you’ve shaped your days around presence, purpose, and people. That you can take your child to school in the morning, or be home for dinner, and still know you made a difference that day.

That’s the kind of success many of us are truly craving. And doula work, when built with care and intention, can absolutely provide it.