NHS Lanarkshire is marking Scottish Breastfeeding Week by celebrating breastfeeding families and raising awareness of the support available across local communities.
Scottish Breastfeeding Week takes place from 8 to 14 June 2026 and aims to support parents to make informed choices, feel confident feeding their babies, and access help when they need it.
Throughout the week, NHS Lanarkshire is sharing key messages about breastfeeding, including the health and wellbeing benefits for babies and parents, the importance of responsive feeding and bonding, and the baby’s legal right to be breastfeed when out and about.
Breastfeeding gives babies the best possible start in life, supporting growth, development and their immune system. It can also support parents’ health and wellbeing in the short and long term. Every breastfeeding journey is different, and NHS Lanarkshire is encouraging families to seek support at any stage.
Susan Short, Maternal and Infant Nutrition Lead, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Scottish Breastfeeding Week is an important opportunity to celebrate breastfeeding in all its forms and to recognise the families across Lanarkshire who are feeding their babies wherever and whenever they need.
“Breastfeeding can look different for every family. For some, it may be a few days or weeks, while for others it may continue for longer. Every feed matters, and every parent deserves to feel supported, respected and confident in their choices.
“We are proud to work with local communities, businesses and organisations to help create breastfeeding-friendly spaces across Lanarkshire and over 1000 are now signed up to be part of the Breastfeeding Friendly Scoltand scheme, so families know they are welcome and supported when they are out and about.
In Scotland, breastfeeding and bottle feeding are protected by the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005, which makes it an offence to prevent or stop someone feeding a child under the age of two in a public place where they are allowed to be.
NHS Lanarkshire is also using the week to highlight the importance of bonding and infant mental health. Breastfeeding is about more than nutrition; it can offer comfort, connection and reassurance, and responding to feeding cues can help babies feel safe and secure.
Anne Marie Bruce, Infant Feeding Development Midwife, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Feeding your baby is one of the many ways parents respond to their baby’s needs. Those everyday moments of closeness, comfort and connection are so important for babies’ emotional wellbeing and development.
“We also know breastfeeding can come with challenges, especially in the early days. Parents should never feel they have to manage on their own. Support is available through local groups across Lanarkshire, midwives, health visitors and the infant feeding team.
“Our message to parents is simple: you are not alone. Whether you are just starting out, continuing your journey, or need help with a particular challenge, please get in touch and we will help you find the right support.”
Breastfeeding rates are rising across Scotland, with Public Health Scotland reporting that 69% of babies reviewed in Scotland in 2024/25 were breastfed for at least some time after birth, compared with 63% in 2016/17.
NHS Lanarkshire is encouraging families, local organisations and community venues to get involved by helping to normalise breastfeeding and supporting parents to feed their babies with confidence.
