Accessing local support services can make all the difference to your feeding journey.
Find free breastfeeding support groups, and connect with other parents in the Lancashire area
Helplines
Want to speak with someone? Find the support you need with our infant feeding helplines
Our service offers
Lancashire Support Helpline on 0208 752 9025 from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
One-to-one support through home visits, video calls, phone and text
Group support at our 15 local support groups
Hospital support at all five hospital trusts in Lancashire, from Monday to Friday
Social media on our Facebook page and closed group and our Instagram
Who's who
Here are some of the types of support available across the county
Peer support
Trained and accredited by individual organisations (sometimes college accredited). Peers are mothers who have (usually) breastfed themselves, and wish to support others.
Also known as Peer Counsellor, Mother Supporter, Helper, Breastfeeding Buddy etc.
Breastfeeding Counsellor (BFC)
Trained and accredited by individual organisations (sometimes university accredited). BFCs are mothers with lived experience of breastfeeding. They have extensive in-depth counselling skills and infant feeding knowledge having studied for an average of 2 years. Breastfeeding Counsellors can support parents with complex infant feeding issues.
Also known as Breastfeeding Supporter (BfN), Breastfeeding Leader (LLL).
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
IBCLC is the only internationally recognised professional breastfeeding qualification. IBCLCs are usually health professionals and accredited BFCs who have undertaken advanced lactation education and have extensive clinical experience.
Sometimes shortened to Lactation Consultant.
NHS Infant Feeding Advisor
Employed by the NHS to provide infant feeding support in the community, usually within the health visiting team. Infant feeding advisors are all trained to support mothers with feeding. They have done extra training through UNICEF and have a passion for infant feeding. Some have undertaken further training and all are supported by the Infant feeding lead.