Great to see so many of you out there doing this work! 

Helen, your post reminded me that back when I was an NCT breastfeeding 
counsellor I did letter support -- looking back I *hand-wrote* the letters 
(having no computer in those days) and I seem to recall sending women to 
their local library looking for suggested books.... Obviously transferable 
skills for email support, but boy, oh boy, does thinking about that make me 
realise how different our supporting practice is in some ways. 

I like working by email for the mirror of some of the reasons Rachel 
mentioned -- you don't get the emotional responsibility in quite the same 
way as when you have spoken to someone.  When you are busier or when your 
own life is full of emotional responsibilities this is actually a refreshing 
change.  And the signposting of people to good internet information is a 
challenge and a pleasure. 

I have thought that email support would be a great topic for a research 
study -- I see some of my own thoughts about why women would choose it 
echoed in some of the recent posts.  As far as I know this is something not 
researched, so that is my thought for those of you looking for a project for 
your masters or doctoral research!!  Look forwrad to seeing in print. 

All the electronic best for the end of the year,
Magda Sachs
Registered Breastfeeding Supporter 

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