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"The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) wants all parents to have an experience of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood that enriches their lives and gives them confidence in being a parent."

NCT Purpose Statement

We EXIST to offer information and support in pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood
We CAMPAIGN to improve maternity care and ensure better services and facilities for all new parents
We AIM to give every parent the opportunity to make informed choices
We WANT to make sure that everyone has access to our services and activities.

What is the NCT?

The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is the largest and best known childbirth and parenting charity in Europe. It offers wide-ranging information and support, both at a national level and locally through its 330 branches. Consulted by decision makers on all aspects of pregnancy, birth and early parenting, the NCT works hard for improved maternity care and better services and facilities for new parents.

Locally and at UK level, we campaign on:

• More choice in childbirth, with wider access to homebirths and midwife-led units
• Postnatal care which is respectful, kind and supportive
• Better support for breastfeeding, including the freedom to feed in public places
• Maternity services which offer a good environment for a straightforward vaginal birth

The NCT support network includes antenatal teachers, breastfeeding counsellors, postnatal supporters, a shared experiences register, breastpump hire, and maternity and bra sales.

Our antenatal teachers, breastfeeding counsellors and postnatal leaders undergo a thorough training with the NCT although they are not required to be medically qualified. All teachers, counsellors and leaders are expected to keep up to date with the latest developments in maternity care and must register with us every year. Their role is to offer support, information, practical skills and resources to help parents make informed choices for themselves and their babies. They do not offer medical advice and parents are asked to take any questions about the medical care of mother and baby to their midwife, health visitor or doctor.

We try to make sure that our services activities and membership are fully accessible to everyone.

Join the NCT and help us campaign on key issues affecting every parent in Britain today, such as birth practices, paternity leave and baby feeding.

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Page last updated: 13 December, 2008

Registered Company No. 2370573

The National Childbirth Trust, Alexandra House, Oldham Terrace, Acton, London W3 6NH

©Copyright 2009 Welwyn Garden City and District NCT