National Childbirth Trust

National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is a UK-based charity that provides information and support in pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. The organization aims to give every parent the chance to make informed choices. It was established in 1956 and has since grown to become the UK's largest parent charity.

History

The National Childbirth Trust was founded in 1956 by Prunella Briance, a mother who had experienced a traumatic childbirth. She was inspired to create a forum where women could share their experiences and learn from each other. The NCT was initially a small group of women meeting in each other's homes, but it quickly grew into a national organization.

Services

The NCT offers a range of services to support parents and parents-to-be. These include antenatal and postnatal courses, breastfeeding support, and a telephone helpline. The organization also runs a number of local branches across the UK, providing a community for parents to connect and support each other.

Antenatal and Postnatal Courses

The NCT's antenatal and postnatal courses are designed to prepare parents for the arrival of their baby and the early days of parenthood. They cover a range of topics, including labour and birth, feeding, and caring for a newborn.

Breastfeeding Support

The NCT provides breastfeeding support through its network of trained breastfeeding counsellors. They offer practical advice and emotional support to mothers who are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

Telephone Helpline

The NCT's telephone helpline provides information and support to parents and parents-to-be. The helpline is staffed by trained professionals who can provide advice on a range of issues, from pregnancy and birth to feeding and early parenthood.

Advocacy

The NCT is also involved in advocacy work, campaigning for improvements in maternity care and parental rights. The organization has been instrumental in bringing about changes in maternity policy and practice in the UK.

See Also

• Childbirth
• Breastfeeding
• Parenting