‘Typically, the number of women who start breastfeeding in the UK is high, sitting at around 80%, however this number plummets after a couple of weeks. We know this is due to a number of factors including a lack of local support… inconsistent messaging from healthcare professionals, social stigma and lack of family support.’
Royal College of Paediatrics & Childhealth, Nov 18
However, we are so blessed in the Borough of Lewisham for fantastic breastfeeding support. As a result of all the amazing support from Midwifery, Health Visiting – and the wider breastfeeding community, Lewisham is leading the way Nationally (second only to Maidenhead). An impressive 52.9% of infants were exclusively breastfeeding and 82.5% of infants were partially or exclusively breastfed at 6 – 8 weeks (Q2, 2024 – 2025 provisional data from Public Health England).
I am so proud to be part of this amazing, supportive community.
Having worked with mums both in both a professional and a voluntary capacity over the last 10 years, I have observed how very important breastfeeding is to the physical and emotional well-being of mum and baby. Breastfeeding is so much more than providing milk for your baby. It offers a unique bonding opportunity. Many mothers are aware of just how important breastfeeding is but often give up, particularly if they do not get good, consistent support. While we are very fortunate that there is plenty of good, free help available at the numerous breastfeeding hubs in the Borough, many mums find it can be useful to have a 1-1 session at home, particularly if there are complications such as concerns with weight or tongue tie – or if the feeding just isn’t as straightforward as expected.
Private 1-1 sessions
I offer 1-1 visits in the comfort of your own home – or a more cost effective session at The Sunflower Centre in Brockley https://www.thesunflowercentre.co.uk/breastfeeding.
Workshops (by arrangement)
I offer antenatal workshops for up to 4 couples or cover a particular issue for a small group of mum’s on request
Bumps and Babies at St Peter’s church, Wickham Road, Brockley, SE4 1LT
Lactation support at the Mum and Baby group
Monday 1pm – 3pm (term time)
Deptford Breastfeeding group – Leander Centre, Ship Street SE8 4DH (Volunteer)
Thursday 10am – noon (term time)
I do home visits in and around the Brockley area (10 mile radius) offering support with a range of common (and not so common) problems including: antenatal support, cracked and sore nipples, engorgement, mastitis, addressing concerns with weight gain, transition support, for example, weaning or returning to work.
A first visit can take up to 2 hours. This enables me to take a thorough case history, observe a feed and work with you to develop strategies that might work for you. Most problems can usually be addressed with one session and telephone support for a week or so after. I send a summary of what has been discussed with a feeding plan if necessary by email within 24 hours to both you and your GP.
If you are interesting in booking a consultation and have any questions, do get in touch.
If you would like to book a 1-1 consultation, please fill in this online form and I will call to arrange a convenient time to visit. Whatever stage you are at, I’d love to help.