Breastmilk is produced at the right temperature for the baby and contains natural antibodies which provide immunity to babies to fight against childhood infections. Breastmilk is tailored to the needs of the growing baby.

Breastmilk provides all the energy and nutrients that the infant needs for the first months of life and beyond.

Below are information leaflets and links to help support you with your breastfeeding journey. Useful video links can be found in the video tab at the bottom of the page. 

Infant formula is suitable from birth when babies are not breastfed.

If you decide to formula feed, first infant formula should be given to your baby and you can use this throughout the first year.

Below are some links with information on bottle feeding your baby. Useful video links can be found in the video tab below.

Combination feeding is when you combine breastfeeding with bottle feeding, either using expressed breastmilk or infant formula.

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months alongside introduction of solids at 6 months and then breastfeeding up to 2 years and beyond. 

It is recommended for all babies the introduction of solid foods begins at 6 months of age. We offer our introducing solid food workshops once your baby turns 4 months to help you prepare for this. We hold these monthly virtual by Microsoft Teams and face to face at the Family Hubs. We will contact you when your baby is around 4 months to invite you, alternatively you can call the Infant Feeding Team on 0300 300 1999 to book onto a workshop.

Below is information and links to support you during the introducing food stage.