The Breastfeeding Hub app was developed to support breastfeeding mums and their families throughout their breastfeeding journeys. It aims to make breastfeeding out and about, easy, convenient and the socially normal way to see a baby being fed.
The Breastfeeding Hub app has two elements; an interactive map that pins places that have been reviewed by other breastfeeding mums as Breastfeeding Friendly. Whether you are venturing out for the first time with your new baby, or you are an experienced in breastfeeding out and about, the app can help you to discover breastfeeding friendly places in your current location, using GPS technology. You could use the search function to ask if a place you are in has been reviewed. Or you could write you own review to help other mothers in your area. Adding a review is easy once you have created an account and login. All reviews are categorised into four areas; Eat and Breastfeed, Shop and Breastfeed, relax and Breastfeed and Work and Breastfeed, choose which one you feel is relevant for the place you wish to review.
The information hub acts as a virtual breastfeeding supporter, offering a one stop 24 hour shop for all your basic information and requirements around breastfeeding your baby. It includes clear photographs and short video clips to illustrate the basics of breastfeeding and hand expressing. There is a great Local Support section where if you find your local council or NHS Trust’s logo this will take you to information about breastfeeding groups and support relevant to your area. In addition you can a Toolbox of helpful hints and tips and a Problems tab listing common problems with external links to evidence based information.
The app has been developed by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and registered Midwife who used to be an Infant Feeding Lead and UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) project lead. The information is in line with the BFI Standards followed by the majority of NHS Trusts and Community Services across the UK. This makes the Breastfeeding Hub app a useful tool for parents, health professionals and breastfeeding supporters, ensuring consistent support and advice is given.