WRDA led Women’s Policy Group Welcomes Breastfeeding Bill but Calls for Stronger Measures to Support Mothers

October 2025 – The WRDA led Women’s Policy Group (WPG) has welcomed the proposed Breastfeeding Bill as a positive step toward normalising breastfeeding in public spaces across Northern Ireland. However, the coalition of feminist organisations, policy experts, and grassroots activists is urging legislators to go further to ensure meaningful change.

In our response to the consultation, the WRDA led WPG highlights the need for comprehensive education, practical support, and cultural change to address the persistent barriers faced by breastfeeding mothers. These include lack of confidence, fear of public shaming, inadequate facilities, and entrenched social stigma.

Key Recommendations from the WPG Include:

• Public Education Campaigns to shift attitudes and highlight the health and economic benefits of breastfeeding.

• Practical Support Measures such as adequate maternity leave, employer-provided breastfeeding spaces, and consistent postnatal care.

• Legal Protections including penalties for individuals or organisations that discourage or discriminate against breastfeeding in public.

• Breastfeeding-Friendly Environments across public transport, workplaces, and healthcare settings.

• Urgent Investment in a Mother and Baby Unit for Northern Ireland to support maternal mental health and breastfeeding continuity.

The WPG also emphasised that real change requires cultural transformation, not just legal reform. The group supports the creation of a new offence for those who intentionally prevent or discourage breastfeeding in public and calls for mandatory staff training and visible signage in businesses and public venues.

The WPG stands ready to collaborate with policymakers to strengthen the Bill and ensure it delivers maximum benefit for mothers, babies, and society at large.

-ENDS-

For further information, please contact:

Elaine Crory – elaine.crory@wrda.net

Meghan Hoyt – meghan.hoyt@wrda.net