Additional resources and support

You can visit the UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative website for information about getting breastfeeding off to a good start, recognising if your baby is getting enough milk, bottle feeding your baby and sterilising equipment in multiple different languages.

The National Breastfeeding Helpline offer support in Welsh, Polish, Bengali & Sylheti and for people who have hearing or speech impairment. They can be contacted on 0300 100 0212 - 7 days a week 9.30am – 9.30pm.

The La Leche League International offer support and resources for infant feeding in multiple languages, you can access this information by visiting the La Leche League website.

The Global Health Media has many videos in multiple languages to support breastfeeding  and offers videos on common topics, such as, increasing your milk supply, hand expression and breastfeeding positions.

Breastfeeding in public
As a new mum, the thought of breastfeeding in public may make you feel nervous. You might be worried about other people's reactions, how and where you'll be able to do it, you may even be wondering if you're legally allowed to breastfeed in public. Don't worry, we're here to help and hopefully put your mind at rest.

Am I allowed to breastfeed in public?
Yes, the law protects breastfeeding mums. You are legally allowed to breastfeed your baby in public. That might be a café, shop, library or on public transport (basically any business that provides a service to the public). The Equality Act states that it is sex discrimination to treat a woman unfavourably if she is breastfeeding.

Fortunately, the majority of people don't mind a woman breastfeeding her child, or simply don't notice. If you feel self-conscious, try to remind yourself that you are doing the best and most natural thing for your baby. The more it's done, the more normal it will become.

If you are asked to leave somewhere because you are breastfeeding, you are absolutely within your rights to challenge that request. If it becomes uncomfortable, and you don't want to stick around, contact the Government Equalities Office. A solicitor will advise you if a claim can be brought forward for discrimination.

Where's the best place for me to breastfeed?
While you are legally allowed to breastfeed anywhere, it might be a good idea to start off with some breastfeeding-friendly places in your local area. That way you don't need to worry about being challenged in any way. Some may even have mother and baby rooms where you can be left to feed and change your baby in peace. Ask your breastfeeding friends, midwife or health visitor for tips on good places to go. And look out for Breastfeeding Friendly or Breastfeeding Welcome stickers in the window.

Over time, the more confident you feel about breastfeeding while out and about, the easier it will become. You'll get to the point where it becomes second nature to breastfeed your baby wherever you happen to be.

Breastfeeding clothes
You don't need to spend lots of money on nursing clothes. Some mums use a large muslin, or scarf to cover themselves while breastfeeding. Some find it's better to wear two stretchy tops – one to cover the tummy, and the other to cover their breasts. Others prefer wearing loose tops that can be lifted up. There is no right or wrong type of clothing, it's personal choice and what feels more comfortable to you.

Remember, there are still certain places that you will be required to wear a face mask, for example in a taxi or on public transport. Read about when to wear a face covering on the GOV.UK website.

Other people…
Rest assured, the majority of people don't bat an eyelid, or even notice if a mum is breastfeeding her child.

In a Start for Life survey, 72% of people said they supported women breastfeeding in public. You may even find people making lovely, positive comments – so please don't let the small minority of people put you off.

Twin, triplets and multiple birth
The Twins Trust offer a range of resources for families expecting twins and multiples. Covering information about breastfeeding, bonding and practical support.

In addition, The Twins Trust offer a specific online infant feeding sessions for multiple birth. Further information and how to book can be found on the Twins Trust website.

Breastfeeding and COVID-19
There is currently no evidence that COVID-19 is transmitted through breastmilk and the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh those related to breastfeeding when you have COVID-19.

Both the NHS, Start For Life and The Breastfeeding Network provide up to date information regarding breastfeeding and COVID-19.

If you require information about pregnancy, breastfeeding and the COVID-19 vaccine the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists provide comprehensive and up to date information, along with answers to frequently asked questions.

Breastfeeding challenges
In the event you are experiencing challenges with feeding your baby please contact your community or health visitor for support. You can also view details of out of hours support on our website.

There is a range of self-help information you can access for common breastfeeding concerns including, sore nipples, engorged breasts, mastitis and tongue tie. You can visit The Breastfeeding Network, NCT and Le Leche League websites for this advice. The Global Health Media also provide multiple videos for guidance on common breastfeeding challenges.