Grace

Tell me about your connection to Birth Companions

I was first told about Birth Companions during my pregnancy after my midwife realised I wasn't okay. I was having issues in my relationship, housing and financial issues, and everything just felt like too much. I opened up to her, and she referred me to organisations for support, one of which was Birth Companions.

They couldn't solve every problem, but they gave me something I really needed: emotional support. They checked in with phone calls and messages, and I knew there was someone I could talk to without being judged.

After my daughter was born, I started going to the mum and baby group. It became a highlight for me. I met other mums, made friends and found a safe space where I could relax while my daughter was cared for. It was the little things that made a big difference – covering transport, asking what food we'd like, and making sure we felt welcome.

Later I became involved in the Lived Experience Team, taking part in research and sharing my ideas about improving maternity services. It really boosted my confidence. Before then I mostly stayed at home, but Birth Companions helped me find my voice.

Having had one child in Sierra Leone and another in the UK, I could see the huge difference in the support available to mothers. That inspired me to launch Regenerating Motherhood in Sierra Leone. We bring women together to learn about pregnancy, emotional wellbeing and maternal health, provide practical support like food and transport, and encourage women to believe they can still build the future they want after becoming mothers. In terms of what I built, Birth Companions gave me the inspiration to do that.

A memorable moment 

The biggest thing I remember is how Birth Companions made me feel. When everything else was overwhelming, I knew there was somewhere I could go where people genuinely cared about me. They listened, they checked in, and they made me feel valued.

Looking back now, I realise those relationships gave me the confidence to help other women and eventually start my own project. I'm really proud of that.

What feels unique or special about Birth Companions and its work?

Birth Companions is genuinely interested in people. They don't just provide support and disappear. They stay in touch, check how you're doing and make sure you know someone cares. That relationship is what makes them different.

What still needs to change for the women and babies Birth Companions works with?

I think Birth Companions is doing an amazing job. If I could change one thing, it would be for there to be more support and for that support to continue for longer because those friendships and connections are so important.

I'd also love to see more opportunities for women to learn practical skills that could help them earn an income or find work. Building confidence and independence can make a huge difference to someone's future.

Finish this sentence: "Birth Companions is..."

Birth Companions is exceptional.

Tell me about the object or photograph you've chosen and how it connects to your story.

I've chosen a bracelet I made for my daughter during one of our Birth Companions sessions. It has her name on it and she still tries to wear it, even though her hand is too big for it now. It reminds me of the friendships, support and confidence I found there, and of how those small moments helped change the course of my life.

Photography by Sarah Ainslie