Camden launches Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme to support families across the borough

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Camden is proud to announce the relaunch of the Camden Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme, a borough-wide initiative designed to create welcoming public spaces for breastfeeding parents, their babies and children.

The scheme encourages local businesses, organisations, and community venues to actively support breastfeeding by signing up to the scheme and displaying the Camden Breastfeeding Friendly sticker, a visible sign that parents are welcome to breastfeed without fear of judgement or discomfort.

Councillor Marcus Boyland, Cabinet Member for Best Start for Children and Families, said:

“We are proud to be a borough that champions the rights of all parents and carers. The Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme is a vital step in making our public spaces more inclusive, supportive, and welcoming. We want parents and carers to feel confident and respected wherever they are in Camden.”

In the UK, 80% of parents stop breastfeeding earlier than they want to, often due to lack of support or embarrassment about feeding in public. The Camden Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme aims to change that by:

Supporting parents to breastfeed confidently in public
Raising awareness of the benefits and barriers to breastfeeding
Encouraging businesses to be more inclusive and family-friendly
Promoting public health and community wellbeing

From cafés and libraries to hairdressers and leisure centres, any venue that welcomes the public can join. Participating venues will be given a sticker to display, helping parents easily find supportive spaces.

Angie Ellis, Camden Infant Feeding Coordinator, said:

“While many places in Camden are open and inclusive, not all parents know this. By joining the scheme, venues help foster a culture of empathy and understanding, empowering parents to breastfeed confidently in public.”

Joining the scheme is free and simple. Venues receive guidance, training tips, and promotional materials to help staff create a welcoming atmosphere. The scheme also offers access to Camden’s Baby Feeding Team and other local resources.