Lynn Murphy runs the Active Birth Centre in Bickerton Road.
How did you first come to Archway?
My partner Dilwyn and I wanted to start a family, but we were young artists living in a cooperative with no heat. We applied to the Peabody Trust, who interviewed us - a really demanding old style panel interview - but they supported us and allocated us a flat in Pemberton Gardens. We'll always be grateful to the Trust because they gave us a home and the ability to put down roots.
And how did you get involved in Active Birth?
When I became pregnant, I was given a book by Janet Balaskas, the pioneer of active birth. I was amazed to discover that she lived here! She was teaching her method at her home in Dartmouth Park. I signed on for a class - it was a revelation. Janet's methods are all about putting the pregnant woman in control of her experience.
After a while Janet invited me to join her as a tutor and eventually we moved into our own premises - the Active Birth Centre in Bickerton Road.
How would you describe your relationship to Archway?
I feel like part of the fabric of the place. I've been teaching here for seventeen years (both in Bickerton Road and at the local Children's Centre), my two children were born at the Whittington (a great experience both times) and they had a great education at Acland Burghley. Maxima is now an art student at the Slade and Nye is a professional chef - his first job was in St Johns on Junction Road.
People here are very grounded and family connections are strong. For example, in our building there are three generations of the same family living in different flats.
Tell us something surprising about N19?
Archway Honey! Dilwyn is a beekeeper and keeps two hives near our home. We hope to be able to supply local businesses soon, so look out for this unique taste of Archway!
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