A sprawling network of alternative birth supporters, known as 'The Birth Keepers', is facing intense scrutiny following a series of serious allegations. The group, which grew from a single social media page into a nationwide empire, is at the centre of claims regarding unqualified medical advice and exploitative practices within the UK's maternity care landscape.
The Meteoric Rise of a Doula Network
Founded by Melanie Jackson, The Birth Keepers began as a simple Facebook community for expectant mothers seeking support outside the traditional NHS pathway. It capitalised on growing demand for personalised, holistic maternity care, promising empowerment and a 'natural' birth experience. The organisation expanded rapidly, recruiting dozens of doulas—birth companions offering emotional and practical support—and establishing a significant online presence.
Through paid courses, workshops, and membership fees, the network built a substantial commercial operation. Jackson positioned herself as a leading voice, advocating for women's autonomy in childbirth and often criticising mainstream medical interventions. However, this rapid growth has now been overshadowed by claims from former clients and associates.
Allegations of Misconduct and Unqualified Advice
Central to the controversy are accusations that individuals within The Birth Keepers network provided medical advice far beyond their remit and training. Doulas are not medically trained professionals; their role is non-clinical support. Yet, multiple reports suggest some affiliated with the group advised on complex medical situations, potentially endangering mother and child.
Specific allegations include discouraging clients from seeking necessary hospital care, promoting unproven remedies for pregnancy complications, and fostering a distrust of qualified midwives and obstetricians. One particularly troubling case involves a client who was allegedly advised to refuse a medically-indicated induction, leading to emergency intervention. Former members of the network have also spoken out about a culture of pressure and financial exploitation, with high costs for services and training courses that promised lucrative careers.
A Regulatory Grey Area
The situation highlights a significant regulatory gap. The title 'doula' is not protected by law in the UK, meaning anyone can use it regardless of training or experience. While many doulas operate with accredited training and clear boundaries, the lack of formal oversight allows unregulated groups to flourish. Professional bodies like Doula UK have codes of conduct, but membership is voluntary.
This grey area enabled The Birth Keepers to operate without the scrutiny applied to registered healthcare professionals. Critics argue that the group's messaging, while appealing to those feeling disenfranchised by the system, blurred the lines between emotional support and dangerous medical guidance.
Repercussions and the Future of Birth Support
The unfolding scandal has sparked a broader conversation about the integration of doula services within maternity care. Patient advocacy groups stress the valuable role doulas can play in improving birth experiences but emphasise the critical need for clear standards, proper training, and collaboration with the NHS, not opposition to it.
In response to the allegations, Melanie Jackson has defended The Birth Keepers, stating the network provides a vital service for women and that any incidents are misrepresentations. However, the podcast investigation suggests a pattern of concerning behaviour. The case has prompted calls for a national review of doula accreditation and potential regulation to protect vulnerable expectant parents.
For now, the empire built by The Birth Keepers stands as a cautionary tale. It underscores the profound responsibility held by those supporting women during childbirth and the urgent need for transparency and accountability in an increasingly popular, yet largely unregulated, field.
