Breastfeeding is great value for mums, babies and the environment but many women feel nervous about breastfeeding out and about, and this can mean they choose not to breastfeed or that they stop breastfeeding before they want to. The launch of the breastfeeding welcome scheme aims to normalise breastfeeding within local communities and provide venues for breastfeeding mothers to feel confident feeding their baby in public.
The Equality Act 2010 clarifies that it is unlawful for a business to discriminate against a woman because she is breastfeeding a child. It is illegal for anyone to ask a breastfeeding woman to leave a public place, such as a cafe, shop or public transport.
Find a venue
Our Breastfeeding Welcome scheme can help you find a range of places where you are guaranteed a warm welcome. Keep an eye out for our symbol when you're out and about or visit us online to find lists of venues and local maps.
Premises
Any premises can sign up to the scheme for free. We will give you the stickers and signs you need to let mothers know they are welcome to breastfeed and list your premises on the website. For more information, contact the Breastfeeding Welcome Team by email.
Watch the short clip below to find out what the benefits are of joining the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme
How does it work?
- Welcome breastfeeding in any public area of your premises;
- Have a written policy on breastfeeding that all the staff are aware of;
- Train your staff so they know how to support breastfeeding mothers;
- Display clear signs which inform the public that you are a breastfeeding welcome venue;
- Provide, if possible, somewhere for mothers to feed babies in private should they wish to.