Feedback from Royal College of Midwives (RCM) Cymru members has helped drive a new initiative to better support breastfeeding employees across Wales. 

The work began after members shared their experiences through the RCM’s Caring for You survey in 2023, highlighting the need for better support for employees returning to work while continuing to breastfeed. Now, as part of World Breastfeeding Week, that work has led to the launch of a new All Wales resource for employers, adopted by the Healthy Working Wales. 

Julie Richards, RCM Cymru Director, said: “Returning to work shouldn’t mean having to stop breastfeeding before you’re ready. We know from our members that having the right support in the workplace can make a real difference to parents as they balance work and family life. 

“We’re incredibly proud that feedback from our Caring for You survey helped shape this piece of work. It’s a great example of members sharing their experiences with us and meaningful change following as a result. 

“This toolkit gives employers practical guidance to create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, while helping staff feel supported to continue breastfeeding for as long as they choose. We hope it will encourage conversations, improve understanding and make it easier for employers across Wales to provide the support their employees need.” 

The toolkit includes practical advice for employers on developing supportive policies, providing suitable facilities and creating workplace cultures that enable breastfeeding employees to continue feeding or expressing milk when they return to work. 

The RCM has long campaigned for better support for breastfeeding employees through its Caring for You programme, recognising that supportive workplaces not only benefit parents and babies but also help employers retain experienced staff and foster healthier, more inclusive working environments. 

Find out more about the toolkit here.