Calling all Doulas :)

[WhenWeMet]

Hi all I hope I am posting in the correct place?
I would like to become a Doula and I'm looking for some advice please.
I have looked into the training courses etc but what I'd really like to know before I take the plunge is is there really a market for Doulas? Is this something I could do that would enable me to help support my family? Do any of you do anything eles? This isn't a "how much money can I make" question, because I would like to help other people through what can be an emotional rollercoaster time in their lives but I also have a family to support and need to know if being a Doula is a viable way of doing this?
Thanks in advance.

I looked into training as a doula, however I simply couldn't be available to go out at any time day or night - DH works so no one to look after DS if I was needed during the day. I spoke to a local doula and she said she doesn't earn enough to support her family alone, however she earns an ok amount which they use as a holiday fund (older children so no worries about who looks after them).

Hi,

My Mother-in-law is a Doula. I don't know an awful lot about what she does but I know that she goes in to support new mums once they've had their baby rather than being there at the birth. She sometimes just takes other children to the park so that mum and baby have some time together or helps out with ironing/washing. She also supports with feeding, bathing etc too. She is able to work her Doula work around a permenant job too.

Sorry that isn't very specific but I hope it helps a little. x