As the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) celebrates its 70th anniversary, two mothers have shared how a friendship forged in an antenatal class has helped them through life's greatest joys and deepest sorrows.
A bond born in a class
Claire Walby, 54, met Adrienne Cohen at an NCT antenatal class in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, in July 2003. Claire had recently moved from London and knew few people. She recalls feeling nervous, but the class was welcoming. Adrienne struck her as "glamorous, funny, and witty." Adrienne felt the same, thinking Claire was "her kind of person." The NCT, founded in 1956 as the Natural Childbirth Association, became the National Childbirth Trust in 1961 and now simply NCT. It has campaigned for better maternity services, including birthing partners' presence and postnatal mental health checks.
Support through life's challenges
Both women had difficult births: Claire had an early caesarean for a breech baby, while Adrienne endured a 24-hour labour and assisted birth. They supported each other through parenting struggles and later through divorces. Claire moved to Wales in 2006, but they stayed in touch. In 2011, when Claire became a single mum and Adrienne was also going through a break-up, they reconnected and began visiting regularly. Adrienne says Claire was her "3am buddy" during tough times.
Tragedy and celebration
In March 2023, Adrienne's son Guy died suddenly in Vietnam during his gap year. Claire was a constant support, messaging early due to the time difference and helping prepare food for the funeral. Claire says Adrienne is her "soulmate friend." Adrienne calls Claire her "chosen family." They also shared joy: Claire married Martin in 2022, with Adrienne as one of her "best women."
Another lasting friendship
Kate Skelton and Amy John met at an NCT class in November 2011. Both had traumatic births and postnatal mental health issues. They supported each other through depression, anxiety, and family illnesses. When Kate's daughter Annabelle, who has a life-limiting condition, was in intensive care, Amy visited daily. Amy chose Annabelle as her flower girl at her wedding in 2017, where Annabelle took her first steps. Kate says Amy is "the most caring, compassionate person in my life."
NCT chief executive Angela McConville highlights the importance of the communities formed through antenatal classes. The charity is launching new classes with more postnatal support. For more information, visit nct.org.uk.
