What death doulas can teach us about dying
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- End of Life Doula UK added 114 doulas in 2025, a sharp rise from previous years.
- Nicole Kidman announced she is training to become an end‑of‑life doula, joining Ruby Wax and Davina McCall.
- Rita Ball works as a death doula in London, supporting families and NHS care homes with non‑medical care.
- Sarah Parker helped Fanny Behrens navigate funeral wishes and death paperwork while providing emotional support.
- Death doulas charge £25‑£45 per hour, though some volunteers provide services for free.
Why it matters: Families gain emotional and logistical support, and the NHS gains relief from end‑of‑life workload; the addition of 114 doulas in 2025 expands a market worth £1‑£2 million, improving bereavement outcomes and normalising death conversations.
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