I breastfed my son while at work, says PC

A police officer is backing a drive to make mothers feel more comfortable while breastfeeding in public.

Cleveland Police's Lauren Somerville is the ambassador for the Welcome to Breastfeed scheme, which has invited businesses in South Tees to display stickers that tell parents they will not be asked to stop nursing on their premises.

Ms Somerville said her positive breastfeeding experience at work was possible because of the force's dedicated breastfeeding rooms and its women's network.

"It isn't always easy, but the support I received made it possible – and it means other women can have that same opportunity," she said.

Ms Somerville said the breastfeeding rooms were introduced due to a change in law but were inspired by women who had poor experiences of breastfeeding when they returned to work.

"I was able to express milk when I needed to, and on one occasion I even went to my son's nursery to nurse him," she said.

"Not every mother returning to work has had that experience, and I'm proud of those who pushed for change."

The NHS says breastfeeding offers a number of benefits, including reducing the risk of babies developing certain illnesses and reducing the parent's risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.

However, many people still feel uncomfortable feeding their child while in public.

Cafes, shops, libraries and family hubs have now been asked to make themselves available to mothers who need to feed their children.

Middlesbrough's deputy mayor Philippa Storey said it could be daunting for mothers to breastfeed in public, which could affect their confidence and stop them from going out.

"That should never be the case," she said.

"This initiative helps ensure parents feel respected, comfortable and safe to feed their child, and I'd encourage any venue that supports breastfeeding to sign up."

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