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History of the BfN

1997

The founder members of BfN were trained volunteer Breastfeeding Supporters working for a UK charity. That organisation accepted money from a manufacturer of powdered baby milk. The founding members resigned in protest - but wanted to be able to go on providing support for breastfeeding women in their local communities and throughout the UK. The Breastfeeding Network was set up, with a constitution which ensures that we remain independent of commercial influence.

1998 January:

The model for the BfN training - a 6 week 'taster' course Breastfeeding Matters, followed by the longer Breastfeeding Matters More course is developed. Trained tutors declare they are willing to start training new Breastfeeding Supporters for BfN.

May:

The BfN leaflet Breastfeeding and Thrush is produced in a photocopied format. October:

Supporterline is launched. Read more on What is Supporterline?

1999 November:

Breastfeeding and Thrush appears in its new printed form, along with the new leaflets, Breastfeeding and Mastitis, and the training and membership leaflets.

During 1999 there were more than 1900 calls to Supporterline!

2000 October:

BfN is invited to send a member to the Baby Friendly Initiative steering group, to help give the perspective of women in this important initiative.

2001 During 2000 more than 4000 calls had been made to Supporterline!

2006 Over 20,000 calls made to Supporteline in 2006 and Training becomes Open College Network Accredited.

2007 - The Breastfeeding Network celebrates 10 years of providing independent breastfeeding support and information.

BfN 10 Years Abiding by the WHO/UNICEF Code Logo Read more about our 10 year celebrations and how we abide by the World Health Organisation / UNICEF Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Subsitutes and Subsequent Relevant World Health Assembly Resolutions

2008 - The Department of Health grants funding for The Breastfeeding Network to run the National Breastfeeding Helpline, working jointly with the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers. Two Breastfeeding Network Tutors are seconded to work in the Department of Health as Infant Feeding Best Practice Adviser.

2009 - Going from strength to strength - join us and be part of our FUTURE.

Read the following pages to find out about How to Subscribe, How to Train and How to Make a Donation.