Free breast pump scheme launched to support Jersey mums

160 mums in Jersey can now benefit from a free breast pump loan service, thanks to funding from the Jersey Community Foundation.

The service has been designed to help families experiencing difficulty with feeding, delayed milk supply, premature births, or other challenges where specialist equipment can make a significant difference.

The grant, announced during World Breastfeeding Week, has funded ten hospital-grade pumps and single-use pump kits for Family Nursing & Home Care (FNHC).

Separate funding from the Coop Community Fund has also allowed FNHC to buy a specialist maternity recliner chair for its new infant feeding clinic at Pathways, described as a comfortable, dignified, and accessible environment for mothers receiving breastfeeding support.

It will also help clinical staff to demonstrate and support a range of feeding positions, and provide another location for breastfeeding and infant feeding support in the east of the island.

Debra Hennessy, International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) Lead at Family Nursing & Home Care, said:

"World Breastfeeding Week is an opportunity to celebrate breastfeeding and recognise the importance of ensuring families have access to the support they need. We are incredibly grateful to both the Jersey Community Foundation and the Coop Community Fund for helping us improve and expand our services.

"Breastfeeding can be challenging, particularly in the early weeks, and practical support can make a huge difference. These grants will help remove barriers for families, improve access to specialist support and equipment, and ultimately help more mothers achieve their feeding goals."

A week of events are taking place to mark World Breastfeeding Week in Jersey, which started last weekend.

It includes a display of portraits by photographer Sophie Darwin in the Royal Square.

Mums feeding in public are being handed a “Thank you for breastfeeding” card.

Organisers told Channel 103 the cards have 'brought smiles to the mums who received them, with some saying it was exactly what they needed that day'.

 'Thank you for breastfeeding' cards are being given to mums feeding in public this week.

Remaining events for World Breastfeeding Week.

Wednesday 5 August: 'Breastfeeding Buddies' - A free coffee and support at Coopers at Castle Quay 11.30am - 2pm. Get professional advice from lactation consultants and connect with other parents.

Friday 7 August: Breastfeeding Buddies at Communicare in St Brelade. 1.30pm - 3pm.