The UK government has announced a significant extension of the National Breastfeeding Helpline, ensuring mothers across the nation will continue to have access to crucial 24/7 support until at least 2026. This vital initiative aims to empower families and foster healthier starts for infants by providing readily available, evidence-based guidance on breastfeeding challenges.
Operating round the clock, the National Breastfeeding Helpline offers free, comprehensive information designed to assist new mothers in navigating the complexities of infant feeding. Many parents find the initial period challenging, often worrying about their baby’s feeding adequacy, especially in the crucial days following birth, making accessible support indispensable.
Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton underscored the importance of this extended support, acknowledging the common struggles faced by parents during the early stages of a baby’s life. “Many parents will know the struggle of being up in the middle of the night, desperately trying anything to get your baby to feed,” Dalton stated, highlighting the real-world impact of continuous, expert assistance.
Recent data from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) released in November reveals a positive trend in breastfeeding prevalence across England. The figures indicate an increase to 52.7% in 2023-24, up from 49.2% in the previous year, suggesting a growing success rate that supportive services like the helpline contribute to significantly.
Catherine Hine, Chief Executive of The Breastfeeding Network, which co-manages the helpline, emphasized its effectiveness in boosting maternal confidence. Hine noted that while the helpline addresses a spectrum of infant feeding concerns, nearly nine out of ten callers report feeling more confident to continue breastfeeding after receiving support, underscoring its profound positive influence.
Minister for Children and Families Janet Daby reiterated that the helpline’s extension is a cornerstone of broader governmental efforts to revolutionize family support services. This strategic move is integral to a comprehensive framework designed to equip families with the necessary resources and guidance for optimal child development and well-being.
This initiative is part of wider reforms in family services, bolstered by a substantial £126 million in funding allocated to the Family Hubs and Start for Life programme. This investment aims to create integrated service points where parents can access a range of support, from practical advice to emotional reassurance, directly within their communities.
Ms. Dalton further elaborated on the government’s commitment through their “Plan for Change,” which seeks to ensure every child receives the best possible start in life. Complementing the helpline, additional funding has been directed towards local infant feeding services within the Family Hubs, offering drop-in sessions for personalized guidance and communal support.
In a related development earlier this month, the government also announced plans for a “Best Start” family hub in every local authority across England by April 2026. This ambitious expansion, backed by £500 million, specifically targets disadvantaged communities, aiming to reduce inequalities and provide equitable access to essential early years support for all families.
