Free to feed

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Free to feed video

Breastfeeding and pumping in public

Building confidence

Breastfeeding friendly map

Want to become a breastfeeding buddy

Free to Feed video

[phone dial tone]

Mum 1: Hiya, I'm sorry I am so late. I'll still go, I'm just getting him ready.

Mum 2: It's okay darling.

Mum 1: Oh no!

In cafe

Mum 1: Hiya!

Mum 2: Hiya darling.

Mum 1: I think he's going to need a feed.

Waitress: Is there anything I can do to make you feel a bit more comfortable?

Mum 1: Oh, thank you so much. You're so kind. Thank you.

Waitress: That's okay!

Mum 1: Thank you.

Lifeguard: Businesses and public spaces across Bedford and Luton and making small changes that are making a big difference.

Barista: Breastfeeding in public can often feel very daunting, but together we can make families feel comfortable and welcomed. Sign up to the free to feed scheme today. Find information in the link below.

Female voiceover: Together let's help families across Bedfordshire and Luton feel welcomed.

Found out more email: ccs.bedfordshireandluton.freetofeed@nhs.net

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Breastfeeding and pumping in public

Breastfeeding has amazing health benefits, but not all who want to breastfeed have the support they need to do so. Let some families explain why it is important to them, and why everyone should feel free to feed in public

Tips for breastfeeding in public video

Speaker 1: Some mums can feel quite nervous about feeding their baby in public, but you're allowed to feed your baby anywhere you like. The more we see babies breastfeeding in public, the more normal it will be in our communities.

Here are a few tips if you're feeling uncomfortable about feeding in public

[text on screen] 1. Practice in different places at home

Speaker 2: You could practice feeding in different rooms in your home or in different chairs.

[text on screen] 2. Try not to put pressure on yourself.

Speaker 3: I've never felt anyone staring or questioning me. I've only ever had any positive experiences. I think as a mother, we overthink things and we put so much pressure on ourselves, but really there's nothing to worry about.

[text on screen] 3. Try in front of a mirror.

Speaker 2: Try feeding in front of a mirror at home because what you see if quite different to what someone opposite you sees.

[text on screen] 4. Go out with someone you're comfortable with.

Speaker 4: Go out with someone that you feel nice and comfortable with. You might get so busy chatting that you forget you're feeding your baby.

[text on screen] 5. Build confident at breastfeeding support groups.

Speaker 5: Build your confidence in a breastfeeding support group where there will be other mums feeding.

[text on screen] 6. Look out for #FREETOFEED

Speaker 5: Look out for venues across Bedfordshire and Luton that have signed up for the 'Free to Feed' campaign.

[text on screen] 7. Catch your baby's early feeding cues

Speaker 3: As soon as your child cues to be fed, find a safe and comfortable place to feed because when you feed early on, they'll be more settled and it'll be more comfortable.

[text on screen] 8. Wear accessible clothing or try one up, one down

Speaker 1: You can buy lots of breastfeeding accessible clothing or you can use the one up, one down method.

Look out for the 'Free to Feed' stickers for comfortable venues to feed your baby. But please remember, you are legally allowed to feed your baby anywhere and anytime. You are 'free to feed'.

For more information or support contact your local Family Hub or speak to your local Midwifery or Health Visiting Team.

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Building confidence

"There’s nothing like sitting with other mums to help you feel more confident about breastfeeding and pumping in public." - Free To Feed Volunteer

Going with a friend or family member can be a really good way to help you feel less nervous about feeding out and about. You could go with a friend whose baby is older so they can show you places they already know. Having someone to talk to, to be an extra pair of hands or to fetch you a drink can help you feel more confident.

Sharing stories
- Think about where you might like to breastfeed or pump ahead of time can be helpful.
- Ask a friend where they have breastfed or pumped before.
- Watch out for early feeding cues so you have time to find a suitable place.
Clothes and bra: what you wear when you're breastfeeding is a matter of personal taste and what you feel comfortable in. For example, some parents like to wear loose tops that can be lifted up. Others, who prefer to keep their tummy covered, wear two stretchy tops, so that the top layer can be lifted up and the bottom layer can be pulled down.

Baby slings, scarves and cloths: some baby slings are designed in such away that you can breastfeed while your baby is still in the sling. Some parents feel more comfortable laying a scarf or muslin cloth over their chest while they're breastfeeding. Always make sure your baby has enough air to breath and isn't getting too hot if using a cover.

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