The Department of Health are supporting the pioneering Goodwin Volunteer Doula Project by providing £270,000 over three years to enable Goodwin to launch the service in eight locations around the UK. Secretary of State for Health, Alan Johnson, said: “The Department of Health recognises that the pioneering work that has been developed in Hull with the volunteer doulas, has excellent potential to be developed in other areas of the country.
“We have therefore awarded Goodwin Development Trust funding to support them to do this and look forward to seeing the service expand and support more families in need.”
Heather Barnes, Project Manager, added: “The time and dedication that the volunteers give to the women of Hull has been outstanding. 
“The difference they have made to these families’ lives throughout pregnancy, birth and the first few weeks of family life has been demonstrated repeatedly over the past three years.
“The volunteer doulas aim to ensure the women have a positive birth experience and support with breastfeeding, helping them to have the best start in life possible.
“It is fantastic that NHS Hull and Hull City Council have recognised this service by funding the project in Hull, and nationally the Department of Health can see the difference we can make to women across the country.”
Listen to Sam Bell of the Goodwin Development Trust discussing the Goodwin Volunteer Doula Project on Radio Humberside:
