We pay tribute to Amber Lloyd, who died earlier this month, and the significant part she played in NCT’s history.
In 1956, Amber Lloyd answered the Times advert (pictured) placed by NCT’s founder, Prunella Briance.
Prunella invited like-minded women to form an organisation to promote the work of Grantly Dick-Read, a British obstetrician who disagreed with the increased medicalisation of birth.
It was the beginning of what would become NCT, and Amber made a significant contribution in the charity’s formative years.
Three years ago, we had the privilege of interviewing Amber and it was fascinating to hear about her involvement with NCT from its beginnings.
She provided tireless support to new mums for over 15 years.
Among her many achievements she established the first local branch in Walton and Weybridge and provided tireless support to new mums in the area for over 15 years.
She also set up a twins group for struggling parents in the area.
In addition, Amber introduced an assessment for NCT practitioners, which is still used today.
Inspired by her NCT work and her husband, Desmond’s first heart attack, Amber founded the charity, Relaxation for Living, in 1972.
It aimed to help people cope with the stresses and strains of everyday life, and was the UK’s first relaxation charity.
She is described as ‘a pioneer of relaxation techniques’ and produced a popular leaflet on breathing that helped many pregnant women through labour.
We -and the many women she supported – are indebted to the contribution of this remarkable woman.
Amber and her husband, Desmond, lived in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, where they brought up their six children. One of her grand-daughters remembers “the atmosphere of eccentricity and love” in which they raised their family.
Amber reared budgies and tortoises – and was apparently one of the first in the UK to breed the latter successfully – and housed a motley assortment of beloved dogs.
She was a member of the East and West Friendship Council, an organisation founded to offer hospitality to “colonial and eastern students”, and often had overseas guests at a time when it was rare to see non-white faces in Surrey.
Amber is survived by her four sons, Robin, Gary, Simon and Alan, two daughters, Cherry and Charlotte, 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
