Independent midwife/doula??

[WetFakeUggs]

Due my second (currently 15 weeks) and considering an IM or doula. Am based in Lewisham SE London.

Last birth was not great - stroppy mw's, forceps, v distressed DS, bad repairs etc - and think I'd really benefit from extra help and support to get me through next time. DP is so traumatised from the last experience that he wants us to spend all our savings and go private (prob st Thomas's) - his focus is very much on making sure the birth is physically easier on me, although for me it's about that and the emotional support too, so I wonder if an IM would be a better idea. Or doula perhaps. I can't imagine getting much hand-holding from a senior obstetrician!!

NB I am not keen on a home birth at all

Any thoughts or even local recommendations in the SE London area?

I'd highy recommend Sam:
www.maternallynurtured.co.uk

She's practised as a midwife, a maternity nurse and she's also a qualified doula. She's very knowledgeable, supportive, warm and encouraging. She'll adapt to whatever approach you want to take rather than pushing any one particular ethos.
(I actually used her as a maternity nurse rather than for the birth and she developed a great bond with myself and dd.)

Thank you, having a look now!