Lewisham launches borough-wide We Welcome Breastfeeding scheme

Lewisham Welcomes Breastfeeding invites local businesses, cafés, community hubs and public spaces to sign up and pledge their support – making it easier for parents to feed their babies wherever they are.

For many mothers, breastfeeding in public can feel daunting. This scheme aims to remove that worry by creating clearly identifiable, welcoming spaces across the borough. 

Participating venues will display a window sticker and logo to show they offer a safe, supportive environment for breastfeeding. An interactive online map will also help families quickly find nearby welcoming spaces.

The scheme is designed to build confidence, normalise breastfeeding in public, and foster a more inclusive, family-friendly community.

It also supports working parents, offering free training for employers to help breastfeeding employees return to work. Families can connect with a range of infant feeding support, including local health visiting teams, infant feeding clinics and national services such as The Breastfeeding Network and the National Breastfeeding Helpline (0300 100 0121).

Samantha Gardiner, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, said:

“This is a fantastic initiative that will make a real difference to parents across Lewisham. Breast/chest feeding is a completely natural process but sadly, feeding in public isn’t always easy. 

“Creating visible, supportive, and safe spaces across our borough will help parents feel more confident and it is a statement that here in Lewisham breast/chest feeding is not something that needs to be hidden. 

“It is also a great example of how our local businesses and communities can come together to support families and build a more welcoming Lewisham for everyone.”

Lucinda Page, Breastfeeding Awareness Worker for Lewisham, said:

“Breastfeeding benefits mothers and children for years to come. It’s protected by law, and parents can feed anywhere they have the right to be. Families deserve to feel confident and supported when out in Lewisham and beyond. Local businesses play a vital role in creating that inclusive, welcoming environment."

Local businesses, venues and public spaces can join the scheme online. For more information, visit lewishamfamilyhubs.org.uk or email lewishamwelcomes@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.