Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding mothers are protected by law. The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal for you to get less favourable treatement because you are breastfeeding when receiving services, for example, it is against the law for the manager of a cafe to ask you to stop breastfeeding or do it somewhere more private, or to
leave because you are breastfeeding.

You can read more about your rights under the Equality Act 2010 by clicking here.

Top Tips for Feeding in Public

1. Wear The Right Clothes. A feeding (drop-cup) bra is essential. You can buy specially adapted nursing clothes from shops such as Mothercare or H&M that carry a maternity range, but these aren't necessary; a simple, stretchy vest top can be worn under your nomal t-shirts and jumpers - when it's time to feed, reach down your neck to unhook your bra and then pull your t-shirt or jumper up and your vest down. This method really only exposes your nipple, so anyone looking is unlikely to see anything unless they're really looking! If you don't believe us, try practising in front of a mirror! This is isn't about hiding what you are doing, it's about avoiding flashing your boobs or saggy tummy! You can buy breastfeeding covers, but a simple muslin square can be easily tucked into your bra strap if you're clothes aren't ideal, although this might attract more attention to what you're doing than just adjusting your clothing and feeding your baby.

2. Build Your Confidence. Practising in front of a mirror at home will give you an idea of just how little is actually on show when you are breastfeeding, even if you aren't wearing anything! You may feel more comfortable feeding in a group at first, or sticking to familiar places like your favourite café, or you could try somewhere semi-public, like a secluded park or just sitting in the car. Once you've done that milestone first public feed, wherever you choose, your confidence will increase. Get to know where the friendliest and best places to feed are and try to plan your route so you're near to one at feeding time.

3. Develop a Thicker Skin. Breastfeeding is natural, and there's nothing remotely inappropriate about it, but some people do seem to have a problem with it. If someone says something, or even looks at you strangely when you're a new mum with hormones all over the place, it's easy to feel unnerved or even angry, but try not to take it personally - ignore it as best you can, or stay calm and respond tactfully, and remember that they are the one with the problem, not you!

Breastfeeding Friendly Places in and around Ilkeston

We would like you to let us know of any local services, from shops and café's to libraries and other public facilities that are particularly supportive of breastfeeding, so we can share them with all our mums. You can do this via the Contact Us page.

Places With Private Breastfeeding Facilities

We recognise that not all women do feel able to feed in view of the public, so we have included this list of places with private facilities for feeding in. Please let us know if we've missed anywhere off.

Boots, 48A Bath Street, Ilkeston (view on map). Tel. 0115 932 4730. Open Monday to Saturday 8:30am-5:30pm. There is a private consultation room you can ask to use to feed in if not already occupied.

P. Williams (chemist), 56 South Street, Ilkeston (view on map). Tel. 0115 932 5036. There is a private consultation room you can ask to use if not already occupied.

Tesco, Rutland Street, Ilketson (view on map). Tel. 0845 677 9807. Open 24 hours from 6:00am Monday to midnight Saturday and 10:00am-4:00pm Sun. The baby change facility contains a padded chair but beware of the smell of dirty nappies!