Breastfeeding support in the workplace 

You should outline the support available for breastfeeding in the workplace. Include how employees can request accommodations when returning to work while breastfeeding. 

Make your policy available to all staff. You can add it to an existing policy or handbook and carry out regular reviews.

If you’re a smaller business, you may not need a formal policy. But it is still important to discuss breastfeeding support with employees.

You can find more advice, recommendations and case studies in this ACAS booklet. 

It is good practice to discuss breastfeeding arrangements with returning employees. You can do this during ‘keeping in touch’ (KIT) days.

Use staff communication channels to share information and promote workplace wellbeing campaigns. Doing this can help you promote a positive and inclusive culture.

Visit our campaigns and events section to find out more. 

Returning employees who continue to breastfeed will most likely need to express milk at work, usually with a breast pump. Best practice includes providing: 

• Extra breaks for expressing milk 

• A clean, private, and lockable room (not a toilet) 

• A designated fridge for milk storage 

In some cases, employees may be able to directly breastfeed during the workday at their workplace, home or childcare facility. Employers should consider and support requests to do this wherever possible. 

Find out how Fun Foundations Nursey support their staff to breastfeed in the workplace.