Our Members
Although The Scottish Doula Network is not a regulatory body, we require all members to sign a statement agreeing to our code of Ethics.
Code of Ethics
- Promote informed choice for new parents during pregnancy, birth and early parenting.
- Support families to birth and parent as they choose.
- Engage in ongoing learning and development, both as individuals and as a network.
- Work with honesty and integrity, according to our individual breadth of experience.
- Protect client/ doula confidentiality at all times.
- Work to support each other as women and as doulas.
- Encourage parents to meet a few doulas to find the one that feels right.
Our Story
The Scottish Doula Network (SDN) was originally founded in 2001 by experienced childbirth companion, Lesley Ann Patrick, as an informal peer support group for the handful of women undertaking her doula preparation course. As a committed gentle birth supporter, Lesley mindfully laid the foundations for the way doulas work in Scotland today. It was with her blessings therefore, that ex-midwife, educator and doula Adela Stockton took over the Scottish doula ‘training’ programme in 2003.
By 2007, SDN members took a vote to formalise the group with a yearly membership subscription. The idea was to generate funds for a website and some advertising, promoting the role of the doula in Scotland. An ethical statement was mutually agreed and is available here* Criteria for membership is based on our commitment to peer support as much as training or experience. As a new doula, support is offered through mentorship from an experienced doula, or as an experienced doula in partnership with a doula buddy.
Once a year, SDN members gather for a retreat in the wild Scottish countryside. The weekend is also open to others working in the field of childbirth support such as midwives and educators, or mothers considering becoming doulas. We run workshops, further our knowledge by sharing and teaching, tell stories, craft, sew and knit, share food and open our hearts.
If you are a Scottish birthworker and interested in participating, please contact us via our Facebook page.
There is no hierarchy within the SDN, every member’s voice is counted and heard in all decisions. We also support our ongoing learning through conferences, workshops, seminars and complimentary CPD courses.
