The Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme is a Scottish Government supported national scheme, but implemented locally by NHS Boards which aims to
- Provide mums with positive experiences of breastfeeding when out and about, allowing mums to feel confident and supported.
- Raise awareness of the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Equality Act 2010.
- Ensure that organisations are aware of their responsibilities under this legislation.
What everyone should know
The Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 makes it illegal to stop a mum feeding her child under the age of 2 years, in premises where the public have general access.
The Equality Act 2010 confers the same protection for breastfeeding children over the age of 2 years, supporting families for the duration of feeding.
Any person who deliberately stops, or attempts to stop a person from feeding a child in these circumstances will be guilty of an offence, which could lead to a conviction.
Further advice for employers on the Breastfeeding etc (Scotland) Act 2005 is available below.
Why become a breastfeeding friendly establishment?
Breastfeeding is really important to the health of both mother and baby, yet Scotland has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in Europe. While many new mums start breastfeeding, some will stop within a few months. This is often because they feel there is a lack of support, particularly when they want to feed their baby outside their home.
Businesses and organisations can actively support the above laws by displaying their membership of the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland s cheme. Helping mums to feel more confident when breastfeeding means they are more likely to continue breastfeeding for longer. This will benefit both their health and their babies.
What are the criteria to become Breastfeeding Friendly?
In order to sign up to the scheme, businesses must agree that:
- All staff within the premises or organisation are aware of the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Equality Act 2010, the aims of the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme and what that means for them. All members of staff will be advised about their responsibilities under the law and new staff will be made aware as part of their induction.
- You will support mums to feel confident about breastfeeding on the premises; if there is a complaint from a customer about a breastfeeding mum, you will inform them that you are signed up to the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme and advise them about the legislation; you will never ask the mum to move her seat or to stop breastfeeding.
- You will display the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme award in a prominent position, at the front of the premises, where it is easily seen.
How to sign up to the Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme
To register for the scheme and receive posters/stickers, please follow this link, fill out the form and press submit.
Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Venues – Google Map
