More new mothers will be able to access round-the-clock breastfeeding support after the Government extended a national helpline. The National Breastfeeding Helpline provides free, evidence-based information day and night to help families overcome challenges that might prevent mothers from successfully breastfeeding their baby.
Breastfeeding can take time to establish, with some mothers worrying if their baby is feeding well enough, particularly in the days after birth. The helpline offers crucial support during these vulnerable early weeks when new parents often feel overwhelmed.
Minister highlights midnight struggles
Public health minister Ashley Dalton said: "Many parents will know the struggle of being up in the middle of the night, desperately trying anything to get your baby to feed. It can be incredibly overwhelming and deeply lonely."
She added: "We are determined to make sure more women get the support they need through this vital 24/7 helpline." The extension comes as part of wider Government efforts to improve family support services across England.
Breastfeeding rates show improvement
Data published by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) in November shows the prevalence of breastfeeding at six to eight weeks in England increased to 52.7% in 2023-24 compared with 49.2% in 2022-23. OHID said breastfeeding rates "are generally improving at local level in England".
However, significant disparities remain, with women in wealthier areas more likely to breastfeed than those in more deprived areas. This highlights the ongoing need for accessible support services across all communities.
Helpline proves highly effective
Catherine Hine, chief executive of The Breastfeeding Network, which runs the helpline alongside the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers, revealed impressive success rates. She said: "We know that almost nine in 10 (89%) of callers are more confident to continue breastfeeding after contacting the helpline."
The service addresses a wide range of feeding challenges beyond breastfeeding alone. Hine explained: "Many women also call to talk about combination feeding, introducing solids, stopping breastfeeding and formula feeding."
Wider family support reforms
Minister for children and families Janet Daby said extending the helpline for 2025/26 is "just one part of a much bigger effort to transform how families are supported". The move forms part of wider reforms of family services, backed by £126 million in funding that will support the Family Hubs and Start for Life programme.
This includes £18.5 million specifically to improve infant feeding across 75 local authorities in England. Dalton added: "Through our Plan for Change, we're going further to ensure every child gets the best start in life."
National hub expansion planned
Earlier this month, the Government announced there will be a Best Start family hub in every local authority in England by April 2026, with £500 million targeted at disadvantaged communities. The service has been described as a "one-stop shop" for families with children from pregnancy through to early years and beyond.
Parents can access drop-in sessions for practical and emotional support through the Family Hubs and Start for Life programme. The comprehensive approach aims to address the disparities in breastfeeding rates and ensure all families receive the support they need.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
