Hounslow's Baby Feeding Plan
Hounslow’s Baby Feeding Plan (2024 – 2027) aims to support, promote, and normalise breastfeeding across the borough. It provides guidance to support more mothers to start breastfeeding and continue for as long as they want to, if that is their preferred option to feed their child.
Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in the health of a newborn as well as the mother. For the baby, it lowers the risk of infant mortality, provides protection against common infections, and contributes to better long-term health outcomes. For mothers, breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast, ovarian and uterine cancers. It also decreases the chances of developing health conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Hounslow provides an extensive breastfeeding support offer, including support from midwives and health visitors, Family Hubs and Children's Centres, NCT peer support groups and Baby Cafés.
However, many parents still face barriers to accessing support, particularly in the most deprived areas of the borough where breastfeeding rates are lower.
The Baby Feeding Plan highlights the need for targeted action to address these challenges and improve breastfeeding rates. The objectives outlined in the plan will work to ensure that breastfeeding support is equitable and accessible for all families.
