Breastfeeding Plan
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Why have a breastfeeding plan?
The breastfeeding plan has been developed to encourage breastfeeding and support families across Westminster. Breastfeeding supports positive parent-infant relationships, oral health (breastfed babies are less likely to have misaligned teeth or develop speech and language problems) and healthy weight through life.
Locally, despite over 91% taking up breastfeeding when their baby is born, breastfeeding rates decline significantly by 6–8 weeks, particularly in poorer areas. The UK has one of the lowest exclusive breastfeeding rates globally, with only 1% of babies exclusively breastfed at six months.
Surveys and focus groups with residents highlighted barriers to breastfeeding, such as returning to work, lack of support, and inconsistent breastfeeding advice. Mothers value professional support but talk about workplace and physical challenges as discouraging.
Read the Breastfeeding Plan 2025-28 (PDF) 
Join the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme (PDF)
Working closely with residents through a working group including existing support in Westminster, the action plan aims to strengthen work on areas for improvement. It aligns with international standards (UNICEF and WHO), and is structured around four key pillars:
- Protecting
- Promoting
- Supporting
- Normalising Breastfeeding
See the Executive Summary
We will track the progress of the plan by getting regular feedback from the working group and services.