Training is a big part of what we do. Whether you are looking to volunteer as a peer supporter, learn more about how you can better support local parents or you are already working closely with families and would like to learn more about supporting breastfeeding families we would love to hear from you.
What People Say About our Courses
This feedback comes from people who have completed our training, including mums training to be volunteers, Health Visitors and Midwifery Care Assistants.
Training to be a Breastfeeding Supporter was one of my best decisions ever. It’s been incredibly rewarding and moving to support other mums who choose to breastfeed their babies. A side effect of the thorough and interesting training is the feeling of achievement and value I’ve experienced.”
”I found the course as a whole really interesting, I found the group work and one-to-one sessions interesting as I was able to see other points of view and got to understand and appreciate other mothers experiences.”
If you have other questions you should find the answers in our Breastfeeding Training Frequently Asked Questions. You may also find it useful to take a look at our Code of Conduct and the Conflict of Interest policy to find out if you would be eligible to train with us.
Commissioning our Training
It is possible to commission a course for up to 12 trainees. This can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your group, for example in the past we have run half day Breastfeeding Awareness courses for Primary Care Trusts and have delivered commissioned courses for GP practices.
To discuss this in more detail please email projects@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk or call us on 0844 412 0995.
Already trained and interested in joining us?
We are always very happy to have people with relevant qualifications and experience join us as a BfN volunteer or on the National Breastfeeding Helpline. There are several different ways this can happen depending on your previous training, experience and qualifications. Examples of relevant qualifications might include training with another peer support organisation or working as a Midwife or Health Visitor. As we are a peer support organisation all our volunteers need to have personal experience of breastfeeding their own child/children as well as relevant qualifications.
If you would like to find out more about joining BfN using your existing qualifications and experience you can apply to transfer in by completing the application form found here:
Finding Alternative Training
In areas where BfN is not able to offer training you may be interested in the following:
- Our partners on the National Breastfeeding Helpline also offer training. To find out more see Association of Breastfeeding Mothers.
- Your nearest maternity unit may have an infant feeding coordinator, who has information on what training is being offered locally.
Other organisations who provide training include