Although it is down to individual choice breastfeeding is strongly recommended for at least the first 6 months of a baby's life.
Employers have certain legal obligations supporting breastfeeding mothers. For example, employers must assess the risks to women of childbearing age as part of their general workplace risk assessment.
Additionally, by law, employers must provide a suitable place for breastfeeding mothers to rest.
The Approved Code of Practice issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says this obligation lasts as long as the mother wishes to continue breastfeeding.
The HSE also recommends that it is good practice for employers to provide a private, healthy, and safe environment for breastfeeding mothers to express and store milk.
To help them carry on breastfeeding when returning to work employees have the right to make an application for flexible work.
As an employer you have a duty to seriously consider your request and can only refuse if there are good business reasons why it would not work in their role.
Businesses (cafés, libraries, GP surgeries, schools and many more) who actively support staff to make premises welcome for mothers to breastfeed can have a positive impact on making women feel able to breastfeed in public. Find out more about the Breastfeeding Welcome Here Award and how to join.
Watch a video from the health and safety executive on how to protect the health and safety of pregnant workers and new mothers.