A new arrival on the baby scene.

ONE OF the latest crazes in childbirth will soon be delivered to Teesside mums-to-be.

Doulas, women who help and advise with the non-medical aspects of birth and childcare, have been around in some cultures for many centuries.

But here in Britain they are a relatively new concept and one that Louise Turnbull, founder of Bump Buddies, hopes will take-off.

"Doulas have become quite popular in London and other big cities in the UK, but I'm the first one on Teesside.

"A few people have made inquiries so far, which has been encouraging," said the 34-year-old.

Louise says many women appreciate a helping hand from someone who has had a baby in the delivery room.

She said: "Sometimes, partners or family members can be very worried themselves, which in turn can make the mum panic.

"Doulas can have a calming effect during the birth, and because they've been through it before can tell mums and relatives what to expect." Louise, of Talisker Gardens, Redcar, gave birth to daughter Evie nearly two years ago, but says the experience was stressful due to unforeseen complications.

The former chemical plant worker says her own birth ordeal was what made her think about being a doula.

Louise and electrician partner Damian, 37, are expecting another bundle of joy this autumn. She hopes the skills she has learnt training to be a doula will lead to a more relaxed birth this time round.

She said: "I'll know what is happening this time, and what to expect." Last month the government announced it was investing pounds 270,000 in doula schemes across the country.

And while they are not medically trained and should not dispense clinical advice, the Royal College of Midwives have said doulas can be helpful in supporting women in the delivery room.

Susanna Cafferty, the North East Regional Officer for the RCM, said: "We always say that a midwife or other health professional should be a woman's first port of call if they are worried about any aspect of pregnancy or giving birth.

"As long as a woman is aware that a doula is not medically trained and are comfortable inviting them to their birth or their home, then they can be useful to have around." But doulas are not just for the delivery room. Louise offers a full ante and post natal service for mums-to-be.

This includes everything from friendly text and email support to helping out with household chores in those busy and bewildering first few days of parenthood.

Louise said: "When a new baby arrives home, there are often lots of visitors popping by.

" This means a lot of new mums and dads, who are struggling to get a moment to themselves, are worrying about things like preparing food or cleaning the house, but a doula can help out with this." . For more information on doulas log on to www.doula.org.uk and to contact Louise go to www.bumpbuddies.co.uk

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BUMP BUDDIES: Louise Turnbull, who is expecting her second child, with daughter Evie