Cocoon Antenatal was set up to meet the needs of parents who feel they would benefit from an antenatal course which is specifically tailored to their needs. You may prefer not to attend a course with lots of other people, or you may be unable to commit to a number of sessions over many weeks. You may have particular issues you want to cover in depth, want help achieving a homebirth or be having your second (or third or fourth!) baby and want to refresh your knowledge.

My name is Rachel and when I was pregnant with my first son, a friend suggested I join the NCT (National Childbirth Trust). After becoming involved with my local branch, an opportunity arose to train as an Antenatal Teacher. This is a diploma level course validated and awarded jointly by the NCT and the University of Bedfordshire. During my time studying, I realised that helping new parents achieve the birth they want is something I am passionate about and wanted to extend my services to reach more parents in as flexible a way as possible.

I am now a mum of three and have experienced both hospital and home birth. I have links with a Breastfeeding Counsellor and Postnatal Leader, and attend my local hospital Delivery Suite Forum. I am involved in meetings regarding changes to local maternity services, and have regular contact with midwives in the area. I am also a volunteer at my local hospital spending time on the delivery suite and wards supporting new parents during labour and the early days after birth, and as such have been CRB checked.