Birth for Humankind

Birth for Humankind (BFH) is the primary provider of community-based doula support and training in Greater Melbourne, Victoria. Our Doula Support Program complements clinical care provided in the public maternity system; it is an innovative and proven approach to addressing social or maternal health inequity.

We train and mentor skilled professional doulas to provide social-emotional and practical support to people experiencing systemic and economic disadvantage and social isolation during pregnancy and early parenting. With a trusted doula by their side, BFH clients navigate the system with greater confidence, knowledge, and agency – resulting in better health and wellbeing outcomes for both parent and child. Research has demonstrated the model’s effectiveness and impacts at individual, community, and systemic levels.

Our program is delivered by experienced staff and supported by a team of around 30 volunteer doulas and a small number of employed doulas, many of whom share lived experiences with our clients. Supporting sustainable employment for additional doulas with lived experience is a key priority for BFH. This will allow us to reach more clients and expand our services in high-demand or targeted settings.

Investing in Birth for Humankind’s unique and proven program means delivering vital support to more systemically marginalised families – and advancing maternal health equity – in Victoria and beyond.

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