Vera Dodge

Hello!

I’m Vera, a mentored postnatal Doula. I was born in Germany but I’m now also British having lived in the UK for almost 30 years. I live in Saffron Walden and cover postcodes CB10 and CB11.

I came to Doulaing after previously working in the technology sector for most of my adult life. Being a mother to our now grown-up daughters (26 and 29) is very enjoyable and I loved my time with them when they were little; initially, I was a full-time mum and, when our youngest was 5, I worked from home in the mornings. I started volunteering for HomeStart about 3 ½ Years ago and found supporting young families to be very rewarding. This inspired me to give my working life a new direction.

The first few weeks after birth are vitally important for bonding with your baby. Being a parent of a new baby is a 24/7 job and adjusting to this can be difficult, especially if you’re still exhausted from giving birth. So, having someone you can rely on to come to your house and ‘mother’ you can be a huge relief.

As a postnatal Doula I will support you emotionally, physically and gather information for you. Depending on your situation and needs, my help will vary and can change from visit to visit. I’ll be a non-judgemental companion supporting your decisions. I can also be an extra pair of hands in your household, go shopping, prepare meals or look after your baby so you can sleep or take a shower. I’ll focus on your recovery after birth and help you adjust to life as a parent, always respecting your choices and wishes.

Training/Experience

Oct. 2019 – now  HomeStart: Volunteering

Sept. 2022           TBR Masterclass: How To Safely Support Traumatised Parents in your Care

Sept. 2022           Younique Postnatal Doula Initial Preparation Course

Oct. 2021             MHFA England two day course: Adult Mental Health First Aid

Sept. 2021           NCFE Cache Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Behaviour that Challenges

Jul. 2020             High Speed Training: Paediatric First Aid