Breastfeeding in public has always been an important topic to me because of the stigma that surrounds it. The more nursing is seen, the more it’s normalised.
I still remember so clearly feeding my first baby during Covid, when public spaces were restricted. I often fed shielded by my pram, under a large muslin cloth, or tucked away in the corners of cafés because I was nervous. Our latch wasn’t great, I was a first-time Mum, and I’d not really seen others breastfeeding in public.
I often fed shielded by my pram, under a large muslin cloth, or tucked away in the corners of cafés
Breastfeeding in Public and Acts of Kindness
The kindness of a stranger in 2020 (I still remember them!) really gave me a boost. I was sitting on a park bench, struggling with my clothing as I tried to get my crying newborn to latch, when I was approached with a smile and words of encouragement. It meant so much in that moment.
This act of kindness really inspired me to do the same for other mums breastfeeding in public. It wasn’t long before I came across Breastfeeding in Public cards. I purchased these online and over the last five years I must of handed out 100s of them! The cards are a small and simple gesture that can really make a difference. Giving and receiving them has always empowered me.
Finding Breastfeeding-Friendly Spaces
During my second breastfeeding journey, although more confident, I still sometimes felt anxious feeding an unsettled teething baby or a nosey toddler whilst out and about. Breastfeeding is a rollercoaster, with challenges throughout.
This lead me to discover the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme, which helps parents identify venues that are breastfeeding-friendly – from libraries and cafés to leisure centres. Simple things like baby changing facilities and table service make a difference to a parent’s confidence when feeding out and about.
According to the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme, polls reveal that seeing a woman breastfeeding does not bother 85% of adults. Despite this, 63% of breastfeeding women report receiving unsupportive comments or behaviour while breastfeeding in a public place.
Polls reveal that seeing a woman breastfeeding does not bother 85% of adults.
The scheme also reported that mothers finding it hard to know whether they would be welcome to breastfeed in some places. They choose to go places they knew to feel safe so as to avoid the risk of negative comments or being (wrongly) asked to leave for breastfeeding their child.
Bringing the Community Together
This is why, when the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme relaunched locally to me in 2023, I was inspired to organise an event to celebrate World Breastfeeding in Public Day. I wanted more mums to feel confident feeding anywhere and everywhere.
I was inspired to organise an event to celebrate World Breastfeeding in Public Day.
The event ended up being a huge success, bringing together healthcare professionals, organisations and feeding groups who all shared a passion for supporting breastfeeding families.
A Day to Celebrate and Support
The event was so successful I was contacted by HomeStart to be part of organising another event to celebrate such a special day. This year’s event, in partnership with HomeStart Tameside and Oldham peer support team, is on the 21st February at the Eco Centre in Alexandra Park Oldham.
It’s set to be a really lovely and family-friendly morning with soft play for the little ones, breastfeeding portrait sessions, feeding groups and children’s activities. I am so excited and lucky to be part of something so amazing. Hopefully this will become an annual event.
Everyone is welcome: those who are pregnant and want to learn about breastfeeding, those at the start of their journey, or nearing the end. Breastfeeding in Public shouldn’t be a taboo subject or even something to debate. It’s something we should support, encourage and celebrate together.
Breastfeeding in Public shouldn’t be a taboo subject or even something to debate.
Happy World Breastfeeding in Public Day 2026!
The event is free in partnership with Homestart and Oldham and Tameside Council. You can book your place here.
This article is supported by Ardo, who believe every parent deserves to feel confident and supported to breastfeed – wherever they are.
