Breastfeeding support available in Richmond upon Thames

This World Breastfeeding Week (1 to 7 August), find out how we are supporting breastfeeding in the borough, and how you can offer help.

World Breastfeeding Week 2025 highlights our roles in supporting breastfeeding and those who breastfeed. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life. Breastmilk provides essential nutrients, supports immune system development, and enhances the mother-child relationship. 

Local breastfeeding support 

Breastfeeding is important for parents and babies, but it isn’t always easy. We encourage all breastfeeding parents to get in touch with our Health Visiting team who are all breastfeeding trained under the UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative. 

Through breastfeeding drop-in groups, drop-in Well Baby clinics and a 1-1 Specialist Infant feeding clinics, our Health Visiting team provides information and support on breastfeeding and maximising breastmilk, helping families to feed safely and responsively. 

Find out more about infant feeding in Richmond upon Thames.

If you know a parent who is currently breastfeeding, there are several ways you can offer support. Attend antenatal or breastfeeding classes with them, provide emotional and practical assistance, and make them feel comfortable, for example, by offering extra pillows or bringing a drink and snack. You can also visit the NHS website, and direct families to local breastfeeding support groups and peer support networks. 

Breastfeeding Friendly spaces in our community 

The local Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme ensures breastfeeding parents and their families are supported when they’re out and about in the community. 

The scheme invites premises from hairdressers, shops, libraries and museums to community centres, GP practices and health centres to welcome and support breastfeeding families by displaying an easily recognisable sticker. These premises are encouraging to share information with their staff and volunteers about why breastfeeding is important and how it is protected to ensure a safe space.

To join the scheme or for further information, email richmond@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.