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Breastfeeding can be beneficial for you and your baby.

• It is good to get information about breastfeeding by attending antenatal classes which will help prepare you for the babies’ arrival
• It may take time for you and the baby to get the hang of breastfeeding
• There are local 1:1 and breastfeeding groups where you can get some support and meet other mums – see below

Bottle feeding

• If you have decided to bottle feed your baby you can enjoy skin-to-skin contact keeping your baby close to you when you feed.
• Babies will feel more secure if most feeds are given by their parents or main caregiver in the early weeks as this will help build bond with each other.
• By law, all infant formula sold in the UK must meet the same standards, which means they are all suitable for your baby’s growth and development.

If you have any worries about feeding your child speak to your midwife or the health visitor for advice. There are lots of other places where you can get support.

The Infant Feeding Team offer support to families with complex feeding needs and referrals are through the 0-19 Team or GP.

Weaning and Introducing solids

• Introducing your baby to solid foods is also referred to as weaning or complementary feeding. It starts when your baby is around 6 months old.
• You can find more information on How to start weaning your baby,

How to know if your baby is ready?

What to feed your baby?