Volunteer breastfeeding peer supporters are among the unsung heroes of the breastfeeding and chest feeding world. This week we’re exploring who they are and what they do. 

I’m joined by two peer supporters, Hilary and Katrina, who volunteer for Treasure Chest, in York. We talk about how they came to train as supporters, what they enjoy and find challenging about the role, and how they help families with their feeding journey.

Maybe being a peer supporter is something that you might be interested in? Check out what’s available locally, or in the UK, visit the Breastfeeding Network website to see if there’s a project near you: What is peer support? - The Breastfeeding Network. You can also train with the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers from anywhere in the UK: Breastfeeding Training – ABM

Find out more about Treasure Chest on Instagram at @treasurechestyork or on their website https://treasurechest.org.uk/

We talk in the episode about child loss and bereavement, as Hilary’s son Kester died when he was two. Hilary recommends some useful resources here: https://www.careforthefamily.org.uk/support-for-you/family-life/bereavement-support/bereaved-parent-support/

My new book, ‘Supporting the Transition from Breastfeeding: a Guide to Weaning for Professionals, Supporters and Parents’, is out now.

You can get 10% off the book at the Jessica Kingsley press website, that's uk.jkp.com using the code MMPE10 at checkout.

Follow me on Twitter @MakesMilk and on Instagram  @emmapickettibclc or find out more on my website www.emmapickettbreastfeedingsupport.com

This podcast is presented by Emma Pickett IBCLC, and produced by Emily Crosby Media.