Bucks New University targets low breastfeeding rates with enhanced midwife training

While 86% of UK mothers start out breastfeeding, Government figures suggest many stop earlier than they would have liked, with 72% of mothers who stopped breastfeeding saying they would have liked to continue for longer. 

The figures also highlight the challenges many women face in the early weeks, with 73% experiencing physical difficulties such as pain or problems getting their baby to latch. More than a quarter said better midwifery support and less painful feeding would have helped them continue for longer. 

Annie Kippax, midwifery lecturer and Baby Friendly Lead at Bucks New University, says timely, skilled support can make a real difference to women who experience difficulties with feeding.  

Now, Bucks New University is strengthening the way breastfeeding is taught to its student midwives after being awarded a Certificate of Commitment by UNICEF UK’s Baby Friendly Initiative, the first formal step towards full accreditation.  

Annie said: “It is very disheartening to see women walk away from breastfeeding feeling like their bodies have failed them, when often what they needed was someone with the right skills to help them through a difficult time. 

“Those first few days can be incredibly tough. A baby who isn’t latching, pain, concerns about milk supply or simply not knowing what to do next can make a new mum feel like she’s getting everything wrong. 

“That’s where midwives can make such a difference. It’s about having the knowledge to recognise what’s happening, the practical skills to help and, just as importantly, the time and empathy to listen to a woman, understand her individual needs and give her confidence.  

“It also means having meaningful conversations with women and their families, taking a person-centred approach and supporting the development of those early, important relationships with their babies. 

“We want our students to leave Bucks knowing how to do that. This commitment from UNICEF UK is an important step in making sure breastfeeding support is properly embedded throughout their training.” 

The UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative, run in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), sets evidence-based standards for healthcare and higher education providers to improve support for babies, mothers and families.  

As part of its work towards accreditation, Bucks is embedding these standards into its midwifery training, helping students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support women and babies during the early days of feeding.  

The Certificate of Commitment recognises that a university is implementing recognised best practice standards in breastfeeding training and working towards full Baby Friendly accreditation.  

Anne Woods, UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Deputy Programme Director said: “"We are delighted that Bucks New University has received this award. Our work to support breastfeeding is based on extensive and resounding evidence that breastfeeding saves lives, improves health and cuts costs in every country worldwide, rich and poor alike. Working towards full Baby Friendly accreditation means that newly qualified midwives from Bucks New University will have the strong foundation of knowledge needed to care for families and to help mothers and babies receive the breastfeeding support they require.” 

The UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative, run in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) sets strict evidence-based standards for healthcare institutions and higher education providers.  

Bucks New University is now progressing towards full accreditation across its midwifery provision.