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As society grapples with the complexities of death and dying, the emergence of death doulas—trained companions for individuals in their final stages of life—offers a compassionate alternative to traditional end-of-life care. These professionals, often referred to as soul midwives, provide invaluable emotional and practical support to both the dying and their families. Rita Ball, a death doula based in London, reflects on the profound significance of accompanying individuals during their last moments, highlighting the need for greater understanding and acceptance of the dying process in contemporary society.
Understanding the Role of Death Doulas
Rita Ball has dedicated the past three years to her role as a death doula, facilitating a supportive environment for both patients and their families. In her experience, many individuals seek guidance on what they can do for their loved ones during the dying process. “People often ask me what they are ‘allowed to do’,” Ball explains. “There is a palpable sense of relief when they learn it’s perfectly fine to hold hands, kiss, or even play music for their loved ones.”
The concept of a doula is commonly associated with childbirth, but the emerging field of end-of-life doulas has gained traction over the past decade. Emma Clare, the chief executive of End of Life Doula UK, reports a notable increase in the number of doulas, with 114 joining the organisation in 2025 alone. This rise in interest is underscored by public figures like Nicole Kidman and Ruby Wax, who have recently announced their pursuit of training in this field.
Providing Emotional and Practical Support
Death doulas not only support those approaching death but also provide essential assistance to their families. Fanny Behrens, who sought the help of doula Sarah Parker during her husband’s battle with cancer, describes the profound impact of having someone to share her grief with—someone who was not a family member. “Sarah was just amazing,” Behrens recalls, emphasising the comfort derived from being able to express her emotions freely.
Doulas also facilitate critical conversations around end-of-life wishes, helping families navigate complex decisions about burial, funerals, and other practical matters associated with death. This holistic approach ensures that the dying individual’s preferences are respected, while simultaneously supporting their loved ones through an often overwhelming experience.
Redefining Death in Modern Society
According to Clare, societal perceptions of death have shifted dramatically, often shaped by dramatic portrayals in film and media. “Many people have lost a lot of knowledge about ordinary death,” she states. By demystifying the physical processes of dying, doulas play a crucial role in alleviating fears and fostering meaningful connections during the final moments of life.
Soul midwife Krista Hughes advocates for the importance of building a strong rapport with individuals nearing death. She stresses the significance of ensuring that individuals can experience their final moments in a manner that feels safe and loving. Hughes shares a poignant example of recreating an imaginary garden for a patient who could not die outdoors due to medical constraints, illustrating the lengths to which doulas will go to honour the wishes of the dying.
The Future of Death Doulas in Healthcare
Despite the growing recognition of death doulas, the field remains largely unregulated in the UK. Marian Krawczyk, a researcher in end-of-life care at the University of Glasgow, highlights the evolving nature of death and dying, with an increasing number of individuals living with chronic conditions rather than succumbing to sudden illnesses. She posits that while some advocate for integrating doulas into the healthcare system, others argue for maintaining their independence.
Concerns surrounding the potential for exploitation within this unregulated space have also been raised. Krawczyk asserts, “The reality is that appropriate end-of-life care is a postcode lottery,” indicating that doulas can help bridge gaps in care, particularly for those navigating a fragmented healthcare system. Dr Paul Perkins, chief medical director at Sue Ryder, echoes this sentiment, underscoring the importance of helping individuals achieve the best quality of life possible in their remaining time.
Why it Matters
The rise of death doulas signifies a critical shift in how society approaches death and dying. As more individuals seek compassionate support during these final chapters, it becomes essential to foster dialogue around end-of-life care and integrate such practices into broader healthcare frameworks. The work of death doulas not only illuminates the profound emotional and practical needs of the dying but also encourages a more nuanced understanding of death—one that acknowledges it as a natural part of life, deserving of respect, dignity, and care.
