Policy information
Healthy Ireland breastfeeding policy
From Healthy Ireland; Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
We’re Breastfeeding Friendly aims to improve the health and wellbeing of breastfeeding mothers, babies and their families through the development and promotion of breastfeeding-friendly businesses, organisations and communities.
Generally, mothers who breastfeed their babies out and about do so with ease. Some mothers say they feel a little self-conscious breastfeeding out and about for the first time, particularly when latching the baby on.
More often than not, a mother will breastfeed her baby and other people around her will not take notice. A key part of successful breastfeeding is feeding the baby when the baby wants to be fed (“feeding on demand”).
According to research, mothers breastfeeding in public feel more comfortable when:
- staff have a welcoming, helpful attitude
- other patrons know and accept that babies may be breastfed there
Your business, organisation or workplace can join the scheme if:
- breastfeeding is acceptable in all areas of your premises open to the public
- all staff members are made aware that your business, community group or organisation is participating in We’re Breastfeeding Friendly and is therefore supportive of the needs of breastfeeding mothers
- a mother who is breastfeeding in an area of your premises open to the public will not be asked to move to another area or stop breastfeeding
- the public are made aware that you are participating in We’re Breastfeeding Friendly through the display of a window sticker or poster
Email healthyireland@health.gov.ie for more information on how to join.
