how to run a Birth CafÉ 

Birth Café is an accessible, easy to run event that encourages people to discuss their relationship to and concept of birth. Events should be not for profit and facilitated by an experienced group leader, who has an interest in birth.
A café can be held in person on in a virtual space with breakout groups.
Download the Birth Café step-by-step guide and logo, and read the simple steps below.

Set up the space

Choose a friendly, accessible and informal space where you won't be disturbed. A private room in a café, arts centre, conference or community space is ideal. Birth Café should be free to attend or at nominal cost.
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HOsting 

 Greet people as they arrive. Cakes and drinks should be available, which helps create a welcoming atmosphere, so either provide these for free or have them available to buy at a reasonable cost. This is a relaxed event so moving around, changing groups or attending to children etc is no problem.
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invite your guests

Invite people to join you via social media or posters/leaflets. Birth Café is open to anyone and everyone who wants to discuss birth, whatever their experience of birth, age or sexuality/gender. Groups of 6/8 people gather in small groups, with a maximum total of 40.
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support conversations

Groups of 6/8 people gather around tables for 60-90mins. The facilitator introduces the event to everyone. Then, in small groups, invite everyone, one by one, to say why they came along. Conversation flows after this. The facilitator rings a bell every 15mins, when people can change groups. Respect each other, don't interrupt, contradict or talk over anyone, and listen!
Birth Café © 2020