Breastfeeding Peer Supporters

Brentwood NCT, in conjunction with Sure Start, is starting a new initiative to recruit 10 breastfeeding peer supporters for a training programme. Our March training programme is now full, but we will be starting another session in the Autumn. Please email us on brentwoodNCT@yahoo.co.uk if you're interested in finding out more!

Sessions last for 8 weeks
10am to 12noon
Free, onsite creche available
Classes held at Cherry Trees Children's Centre, 32a Knights Way, Ingrave CM13 2LX
Course is accredited by the Open College Network (OCN)
There is no written coursework
Course conducted by an NCT-accredited Breastfeeding Counsellor

What is a Peer Supporter?

A peer supporter provides encouragement to breastfeeding mothers (and their partners), promotes breastfeeding to expectant couples, and, most of all, listens in a mother-to-mother capacity. There is no physical contact with breastfeeding mothers, nor will you be in a position to give other than basic information. Any woman with a specific breastfeeding problem should be referred to a trained Breastfeeding Counsellor. Your role is primarily to listen and encourage.

If you had a positive experience of breastfeeding yourself, then this is a chance to help other women have the same experience.

What Do We Ask of You?

You must have breastfed for a minimum of 3 months
You must be available to attend classes on a weekday morning for 8 weeks
You must be available to attend the 6 followup sessions (to be scheduled)
You must be available to attend one Breast Friends Group per month in a breastfeeding peer supporter capacity
A local mother who has had a positive experience of recent breast feeding.
Able to work well in a team and be honest and trustworthy.
A good communicator.
Able to like people.
A good listener.
Able to keep confidentiality and recognise accountability.
Caring and have a sense of humour.
Flexible and reliable.
Able to believe in what she is doing.
Down to earth.
Tolerant and understanding of ethical, spiritual and cultural differences.
Be willing to share experiences.
Be a good team member.

What Are the Benefits?

Support women in sustaining breastfeeding
Helps to normalise breastfeeding
Increase breastfeeding rates and improve mothers' experiences
Build a strong, local network of breastfeeding mothers

Want More Information?

We'd like to hear from you if you're interested in finding out more about being a breastfeeding peer supporter. Even if you're a little unsure of the type of training or level of commitment involved, call or email us so we can have an informal chat with you.