East Kent Infant Feeding Information
Information for parents from the Infant Feeding Team
Whilst you are in the hospital, maternity staff including midwives and support workers, will care for you and your baby. We also have an Infant Feeding Team, made up of infant feeding support workers and lactation consultants. This team works on the wards during the daytime on most days. We also have infant feeding support workers in the community, who work part time. They may be available to support your midwife with your care once you have had your baby.
There are also other places where you can find feeding support within East Kent. Below are details of different options you may like to explore. Please have a look at the websites and contact them for group dates and times.
Health Visiting Service
Kent Community Health Foundation Trust run feeding drop-in groups across Kent. These are great if you are struggling, need motivation, have questions, or simply want to meet other families. You can find out more information via the Beside You Kent web site.
Most feeding problems can be solved with some support and reassurance. However, we know that some people may need more detailed or specialist support to help them in their feeding journey.
Referrals to the specialist service can be made via a health professional.
La Leche League
Breastfeeding support groups run throughout East Kent. Details of meetings can be found on the La Leche League web site.
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (ABM)
Weekly breast / chest feeding support, attended by an ABM breastfeeding counsellor and mother supporters. For more information, please visit the Deal Breastfeeding Support Group web site.
Useful websites
Below are some websites you may find useful. They offer evidence based information around infant feeding. Please speak to your midwife or health visitor if you have any concerns about feeding your baby.
National Breastfeeding Helpline offer independent, confidential, mother-centred, non-judgmental breastfeeding support and information.
NHS information about breastfeeding and expressing breastmilk.
The Breastfeeding Network aims to be an independent source of support and information for breastfeeding women and others.
Find evidence based information about formula milks from The First Steps Nutrition Trust.
Contact details
The East Kent Hospitals Infant Feeding Coordinators welcome queries via email.