National Childbirth Trust

The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is the UK's largest charity offering information and support in pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood[1] Since 1956 it has supported millions of parents through birth of their children and through early parenthood while bringing about advances in professional practice and public policy.

Briance had suffered two traumatic childbirth experiences and set about changing the situation for other women, so that they would be more humanely treated during pregnancy and labour.

Briance was inspired by the writings of British obstetrician Grantly Dick-Read, who is regarded by many as the father of natural childbirth, and became the first president of the NCT.

[8] The charity provides free antenatal and postnatal support and information through its nationwide network of over 300 local branches, run by volunteers.

[12] In January 2013, Kirstie Allsopp, presenter of property-related television shows, sparked press comment when she tweeted, "Lots of people have good NCT experiences, but many don't.

Carolyn Lochhead, author of Three Toothbrushes and Other Essays on Motherhood, said: "I didn't know anyone else with children, so the National Childbirth Trust class was fantastic .