Pregnancy is often seen as a joyous milestone, but for many, it brings about significant challenges that require specialized support. Alternatives Watford, a charity founded in 2002, offers both emotional and practical assistance to individuals facing a range of pregnancy-related struggles, helping them navigate difficult experiences with care and compassion.
Angela Such, Head of Counselling Services at Alternatives, describes the work as a profound privilege. “The most rewarding aspect is witnessing individuals recover from and overcome deeply painful experiences,” she says. “Whether it’s adjusting to parenthood, coping with the loss of a baby, or dealing with the reality of infertility, it’s incredibly fulfilling to help people view their situation from a different perspective, enabling them to find skills and coping mechanisms to live well, no matter their circumstances.”
Angela, who joined Alternatives in 2013, has seen the charity evolve significantly over the years. Originally focused on supporting women with unplanned pregnancies, Alternatives has expanded its services to address a wide variety of pregnancy-related issues, including infertility, miscarriage, traumatic birth experiences, and post-natal depression. The charity now also provides adoption counseling to support those navigating the adoption process or adjusting to life with an adopted child.
“The organization has grown immensely over the past decade,” Angela explains. “The needs have shifted from primarily supporting young teenage girls with unplanned pregnancies to helping older women coping with baby loss or infertility. We now offer a comprehensive range of services to meet these evolving challenges.”
One of the charity’s most impactful programs is the Baby Basket project, which provides essential items to mothers-to-be in need. The charity has also established two successful mother and baby shops in Watford and Hemel Hempstead, which help fund their services.
While Alternatives Watford is recognized by the NHS, it does not receive government funding and faces ongoing challenges securing resources. “The fight for funding is really tough,” says Angela. Much of the charity’s financial support comes from the two shops, fundraising events, and grants. Their counseling services are offered free of charge, with clients encouraged to donate if they are able.
As the charity continues to expand its outreach, referrals now come not just from individuals but through healthcare professionals such as midwives, GPs, health visitors, and social workers. This integration into the community has allowed Alternatives to reach even more people in need of their services.
Angela emphasizes the charity’s commitment to providing non-judgmental, inclusive, and unconditional support. “It’s an absolute privilege to walk alongside people during some of the toughest moments of their lives,” she says.
Through their dedicated work, Alternatives Watford has become a crucial resource for anyone facing the complex emotional and practical challenges of pregnancy, offering a safe, supportive environment where clients can find the help they need to navigate their journey.
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