The information about coronavirus and breastfeeding on this page is being checked regularly and will develop in response to guidelines and evidence. This page was last updated on 5th March 2021.
BfN’s Statement on COVID-19 Vaccines while breastfeeding
This statement aims to address the questions we are receiving from mothers and families. It is for information only and not intended to promote the vaccine in breastfeeding mothers or replace advice from a healthcare professional.
Women who are breastfeeding can be given any of the three vaccines currently authorised for use in the UK if they meet the other conditions for receiving the vaccine (JCVI and MHRA).
As with other vaccines there is no evidence that anything other than antibodies passes into breastmilk. Timing to avoid passage of the vaccine (i.e. not breastfeeding for a period) to the baby is ineffective.
Early published results which are promising but very limited in numbers of cases studied:
- Baird JK et al published a paper on 2 March 2021 that they had identified the presence of SARS-CoV-2 specific immunoglobulins (covid-19 antibodies) in the milk of 6 vaccinated mothers. [SARS-CoV-2 antibodies detected in human breast milk postvaccination published on 2nd March 2021. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.02.23.21252328v1.full.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3l5hlpS0L6J–vwuq7odYHJ3aB6P8OjEdu-Fy_vvzCjLh-yLnv0MqMp5s]. The conclusion of the group is:
“Currently, there is little to no research to guide lactating women and their healthcare providers when deciding whether or not to get vaccinated. We provide the first evidence that mothers vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 produce antibodies to this virus in breast milk that may be protective for infants.
- SARS-CoV-2 has already been identified in the milk of mothers exposed to COVID-19 infection . [Peng S et al 2020. A study of breastfeeding practices, SARS-CoV-2 and its antibodies in the breast milk of mothers confirmed with COVID-19 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/article/PIIS2666-6065(20)30045-6/fulltext#seccesectitle0001]
- They have also been detected in one mother vaccinated in pregnancy but naïve to COVID-19 infection, in cord blood of her newborn. [Gilbert P Rudnick C 2021 Newborn Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 detected in cord blood after maternal vaccination. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.02.03.21250579v1?fbclid=IwAR2Uwu7PKrm1bulzYxYUC8V-AP_ur2_bDAaW99RSUe4wj78YbhUYztpRpYM]
If you stopped breastfeeding
If you have recently stopped breastfeeding because of the earlier stated position on the vaccine and breastfeeding and you would like to re-start lactation or talk through your experience then you can contact the National Breastfeeding Helpline. Our aim is to support individual, informed decisions based on the best data we have but we are aware that the change in advice has disrupted women’s experience of breastfeeding and this may require support.
There have been no lactating mothers in the study populations of either vaccine and the decision has been made based on an understanding of the way that vaccines are handled by a lactating mother’s body. Further studies are being undertaken on a larger population to confirm the information on low risk. At this time we are unaware of any concerns being raised by the breastfeeding mothers who have been vaccinated.
Many of the governmental websites were updated on New Year’s Eve 2020.
The patient group directives (PGD), under which nurses are permitted to administer the vaccine (which is a prescription only drug), have now been rewritten so there should be no barrier to receiving the vaccination if you are breastfeeding: www.england.nhs.uk/coronavirus/publication/patient-group-direction-for-covid-19-mrna-vaccine-bnt162b2-pfizer-biontech/?fbclid=IwAR1kOlhkoZuDV1_VrqQy_3GCWIev1j3g0kCa7tJlqw5t79Ivf69Mdt8S04o
HIFN Factsheet on use of Covid-19 vaccinations in breastfeeding and pregnancy https://www.hifn.org/covid-interim.
If there is confusion please ask to speak to the clinical lead on duty at the vaccination centre.
Sources of information 04.02.21
Oxford University/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine approved
www.gov.uk/government/news/oxford-universityastrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-approved?fbclid=IwAR2H6kYRf9GvNcrZnifhnq3MisovKIsTThE9E4HirI-ZvAOhPgjxuNenNe4
Statement from the UK Chief Medical Officers on the prioritisation of first doses of COVID-19 vaccines www.gov.uk/government/news/statement-from-the-uk-chief-medical-officers-on-the-prioritisation-of-first-doses-of-covid-19-vaccines?fbclid=IwAR0lXaoGRj3g3JheXRwAb-Y7nIFpZs8cv2-vIc0bDbYhtjd-z1cMEgKCNs0
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) Updated advice on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy and women who are breastfeeding www.rcog.org.uk/en/news/updated-advice-on-covid-19-vaccination-in-pregnancy-and-women-who-are-breastfeeding/
COVID-19 vaccination programme Information for healthcare practitioners https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/949063/COVID-19_vaccination_programme_guidance_for_healthcare_workers_December_2020_V3.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0WU4QUdudwyiSQrP8QZIYyjuenTgEEw6V0WGC6jtzx3EWXVSCql-4KGs4
GPIFN COVID-19, Vaccination & Infant Feeding https://gpifn.org.uk/covid19/
HIFN Factsheet on use of Covid-19 vaccinations in breastfeeding and pregnancy www.hifn.org/covid-interim
Covid-19 vaccinations are prescription only medicines. The patient group directives (PGD) is a mechanism under which nurses are permitted to administer the vaccine. The PGD non-prescribers can give specific vaccinations to a group of people with described characteristics. Breastfeeding women can be given Covid-19 vaccinations in this way.
Previous references on compatibility with the vaccine and breastfeeding
The Unicef Baby Friendly Initiative has a very useful statement on the COVID-19 vaccination and breastfeeding for health professionals to discuss with mothers: www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/COVID-19/
The information from the InfantRisk team in the USA – the world leading centre on the passage of drugs in breastmilk – posted this information on Saturday 12th December: www.infantrisk.com/covid-19-vaccine-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding?fbclid=IwAR030ND0pMXbF76x1zjCzj22HCrGGIUCirCFZ-ijHBFUBOeAECkVJQpMds0
“As for breastfeeding, little or none of these vaccine components would ever reach the milk compartment, or even be transferred into human milk. Even if they were, they would simply be digested like any other protein by the infant. It is our opinion that the present group of vaccines are probably going to be quite safe for breastfeeding mothers. The infant may even gain a small amount of maternal IgG in the breastmilk, which may even be beneficial.
Unfortunately, the safety of these vaccines will only be determined after significant use in patients.”
This information was published 14 December Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine: www.bfmed.org/abm-statement-considerations-for-covid-19-vaccination-in-lactation?fbclid=IwAR1qG7rS66IyTDyDlxGIOrwQsoSqDRuXWMWnjgBXwhOJuSofk13veeT3jl8
“During lactation, it is unlikely that the vaccine lipid would enter the blood stream and reach breast tissue. If it does, it is even less likely that either the intact nanoparticle or mRNA transfer into milk. In the unlikely event that mRNA is present in milk, it would be expected to be digested by the child and would be unlikely to have any biological effects.”
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists: www.acog.org/en/Clinical/Clinical%20Guidance/Practice%20Advisory/Articles/2020/12/Vaccinating%20Pregnant%20and%20Lactating%20Patients%20Against%20COVID%2019?fbclid=IwAR1YHdAK2KOh3dDtcXEcvxJsHnBPHkumskIQoBSbb1vYRXNQpezUYmCcu7Y
“COVID-19 vaccines should be offered to lactating individuals similar to non-lactating individuals when they meet criteria for receipt of the vaccine based on prioritization groups outlined by the ACIP.”
The Green Book: www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-the-green-book-chapter-14a
“Pregnancy and breastfeeding There are no known risk associated with giving inactivated, recombinant viral or bacterial vaccines or toxoids during pregnancy or whilst breast-feeding (Kroger A et al., 2013). Since inactivated vaccines cannot replicate, they cannot cause infection in either the mother or the foetus. Although AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine contains a live adenovirus vector, this virus is not replicating so will not cause infection in the mother or the foetus. As with most pharmaceutical products, specific clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy have not been carried out.”
Can I breastfeed if I have COVID-19?
Current evidence suggests that it is safe to breastfeed and continue to offer breastmilk if you have COVID-19. “The long-term well established benefits of breastfeeding are highly likely to outweigh any potential risks of transmission of the virus through breastmilk” (RCOG, RCM July 2020, Walker, June 2020 & WHO June 2020)
In fact, breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for infants and provides protection against many illnesses. If you have confirmed COVID-19 or have symptoms you should take all possible precautions to avoid spreading the virus to your baby, including washing your hands before touching your baby, sterilising any breast pump or bottles and washing your hands after changing their nappy.
Consider wearing a face covering or fluid-resistant face mask while feeding or caring for the baby.
If your baby is older it may be safer to leave your mask off to avoid them pulling at it and touching your secretions.
Babies should not wear a face covering or mask as they may risk suffocation.
If you are too unwell to breastfeed you may still be able to express milk for your baby. Pump equipment and bottles need to be sterilised according to manufacturer’s instructions.
It can be difficult to differentiate between a cold, flu and coronavirus. The information in this diagram may help: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-54145299
Information on medicines and over the counter remedies:
For information on cough and cold remedies when you are breastfeeding see: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/cold-remedies/
For information on products which help to relieve sore throats: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/sore-throats/
For information on painkillers which may also help to relieve temperature and aches & pains: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/analgesics/
Should you be diagnosed with COVID-19 and be admitted to hospital you may be prescribed stronger medication including anti-virals:
See https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/bfm.2020.0268?fbclid=IwAR2OAUf0u5yEbACcrAydssi7JTS68ZVbHrkOnmQgmYVOrLapM1vvbjYLSmo&#utm_source=ETOC&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=bfm
For more information on breastfeeding with COVID19 see FAQ section I am feeling unwell and may have coronavirus found further down this page
References
- Dumitriu D, Emeruwa UN, Hanft E, et al. Outcomes of Neonates Born to Mothers With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection at a Large Medical Center in New York City. JAMA Pediatr. Published online October 12, 2020. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2020.4298
- Sections 6:1-3, Version 11: updated 24 July 2020. Guidance for healthcare professionals on coronavirus (COVID-19) infection in pregnancy, published by the RCOG, Royal College of Midwives, Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, Public Health England and Public Health Scotland. https://www.rcog.org.uk/coronavirus-pregnancy
- https://www.england.nhs.uk/coronavirus/wp-content/uploads/sites/52/2020/05/C0441-maternity-leaflets-cv19-parent-information.pdf
- Walker, KF, O’Donoghue, K, Grace, N, Dorling, J, Comeau, JL, Li, W, Thornton, JG. Maternal transmission of SARS-COV-2 to the neonate, and possible routes for such transmission: a systematic review and critical analysis. BJOG 2020; https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.16362. 127: 1324– 1336.
- https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1471-0528.16362
- WHO, June 2020, WHO/2019-nCoV/Sci_Brief/Breastfeeding/2020.1
- https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/breastfeeding-and-covid-19
What are the symptoms?
How to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus
- wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
- always wash your hands when you get home or into work
- use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
- cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
- put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards
- try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell
Don’t
- touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
I am feeling unwell and may have coronavirus
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance/stay-at-home-guidance-for-households-with-possible-coronavirus-covid-19-infection
Site accessed 10 November 2020
If you suspect you have COVID-19 or it has been confirmed and you want information on breastfeeding follow the link:
https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/guidelines-research-services/guidelines/coronavirus-pregnancy/covid-19-virus-infection-and-pregnancy/
Site accessed 10 November 2020 and last updated 14 October 2020
For links to the Government and devolved administration sites please see FAQ section Can I breastfeed if I have COVID-19? further up this page.
The main points include:
- Wash your hands before touching your baby, breast pump or bottles
- Try to avoid coughing or sneezing on your baby while feeding, whether breastfeeding or giving a bottle.*
- Consider wearing a face mask while breastfeeding or bottle feeding, If your baby is older it may be safer to leave your mask off to avoid them pulling at it and touching your secretions. Discuss options with your midwife, health visitor or GP..
- Follow manufacturers recommendations for pump cleaning after each use.
- If you are feeling too unwell to breastfeed directly consider asking someone who is well to feed your expressed breast milk to your baby.
- If you choose to feed your baby with formula or expressed milk, it is important that you follow the sterilisation guidelines https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/sterilising-bottles/
- If you are expressing breast milk in hospital, a dedicated breast pump should be used. The hospital may have guidance about bringing the bottles into the neonatal unit
*This is to ensure good respiratory hygiene when close to your baby such as when feeding, or changing their nappy.
If you would like to know more about donor milk as an option while you are ill follow this link to find your nearest milk bank. Supplies are limited, they will do what they can. http://www.ukamb.org/
If your baby needs to be cared for in a Neonatal Unit (NICU) these links have general information and specific details about COVID-19.
Frequently asked questions within neonatal services – these are detailed and written for clinicians. In the section Managing provision of expressed breast milk (EBM) in the NNU when mother is SARS-Co-V positive
It states “Current national advice for well babies of COVID-19 suspected or confirmed mothers is that the benefits of breast feeding outweigh any theoretical risks.” And then states:
“For unwell or preterm babies in the NNU the evidence is less clear. Practitioners should discuss with parents the pros and cons of provision of EBM to babies in the NNU, noting the current uncertainty. A joint decision should be informed by factors including the gestation and clinical condition of the baby, transfer of protective maternal antibodies, the availability of donor breast milk and parental choice. Other coronaviruses are destroyed by pasteurisation.”
The document may help when discussing being with your baby in the neonatal setting: “Neonatal services present a unique situation in terms of “visitors” and it is essential that the mother and her partner are never considered to be visitors within the neonatal unit – they are partners in their baby’s care, and their presence should be encouraged (See Bliss statement at the link below) The mother and her newborn are a biological entity and should have unrestricted contact when admission to a NNU is unavoidable.”
https://www.rcpch.ac.uk/resources/covid-19-guidance-neonatal-settings
https://www.bliss.org.uk/health-professionals/information-and-resources/parental-access-covid19
Site accessed 10 November 2020 and last updated 23 October 2020
There are unacceptable variations around the UK to which [a]n NHS England spokesperson said: “The NHS has been clear that parents should be with their babies in neonatal units as much as possible and any restrictions should only happen when absolutely necessary.”
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/nov/16/mothers-needlessly-separated-babies-hospital-covid-rules
Guidance for Health Professionals here:
https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/COVID-19/
Further research collated by Unicef UK BFI is available here:
https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/news-and-research/baby-friendly-research/coronavirus-research/
BFI sites last accessed 16 November 2020
Expressing milk and donor milk:
If you are expressing breast milk in hospital, a dedicated breast pump should be used. The hospital may have guidance about bringing the bottles into the neonatal unit.
If you would like to know more about donor milk as an option while you are ill follow this link to find your nearest milk bank. Supplies are limited, they will do what they can. http://www.ukamb.org/ and https://heartsmilkbank.org/milk/
Information on medicines and over the counter remedies:
For information on cough and cold remedies when you are breastfeeding see: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/cold-remedies/
For information on products which help to relieve sore throats: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/sore-throats/
For information on painkillers which may also help to relieve temperature and aches & pains: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/analgesics/
Should you be diagnosed with COVID-19 and be admitted to hospital you may be prescribed stronger medication including anti-virals:
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/bfm.2020.0268?fbclid=IwAR2OAUf0u5yEbACcrAydssi7JTS68ZVbHrkOnmQgmYVOrLapM1vvbjYLSmo&#utm_source=ETOC&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=bfm
For further information:
- Drugs in Breastmilk information here: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/detailed-information/drugs-in-breastmilk/
- Facebook link here: https://www.facebook.com/BfNDrugsinBreastmilkinformation/
Drugs in Breastmilk information service can be reached via the Facebook page, or email druginformation@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk
Links checked 10 November 2020
Starting breastfeeding - the first few days.
How is feeding going?
Helping your baby attach well will allow them to make the most of your milk and avoid hurting your breasts. You are looking for short sucks to begin, which can feel strong, followed by long rhythmic sucks and swallows. When your baby finishes the feed, they should appear content and satisfied – though they may want more from the second breast before they finally settle. Your nipples should look like they did before the feed, if sore, misshapen or have pressure lines, the attachment may have shifted during the feed – this is something to work on. Keep in mind the phrase ‘CHINS’, trained peer supporters use this acronym when supporting mothers to help remember the ways of holding and attaching your baby: Close, your baby needs to be close to you so that they can scoop enough breast into their mouth Head free, so your baby can tilt their head back when attaching to your breast. This allows their chin to lead as he comes on to the breast In Line, your baby’s head and body need to be in a straight line so they are comfortable and can swallow easily. Nose to nipple, this should be at the top of the list – start the feed with your nipple level with your babies nose so that as they root and tilt their head you can bring them closer to you so they will be well attached. Sustainable, comfortable for both of you through the feed. Your baby’s wet and dirty nappies are a good indication of the amount of milk taken.
The first 48 hours
- At the beginning, your baby will pass a black tar-like poo (called meconium)
- In the first 48 hours, your baby is likely to have only 2 or 3 wet nappies.
Wet nappies should then start to become more frequent, with at least 6 every 24 hours from day 5 onwards. You may notice an orange or red, brick-dust coloured stain in your baby’s nappy in the first couple of days after birth. This can look alarmingly like blood, but is urate crystals, which is normal at this time. As feeds increase the urine will become less concentrated and the staining will disappear. Let your midwife know if it is still there by day 3 or 4. It is also common for baby girls to have a vaginal discharge in the first few days after birth. At times this may be slightly blood stained and is due to the presence of your hormones in your daughter’s body; this is entirely normal but if in doubt please check with your midwife. https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/rosie-hospital/pregnancy-labour-and-birth/going-home/caring-for-your-baby/what%E2%80%99s-nappy
Days 3-4
- By day 3, your baby’s poo becomes easier to clean as the meconium mixes with your milk and should be changing to a lighter, loose, greenish poo.
- From day 4 and for the first 4 – 6 weeks your baby should pass at least 2 yellow poos every day, with poos at least the size of a £2 coin.
If on any day during the first week your baby has not had a poo, or you have any concerns, call the National Breastfeeding Helpline. You can also speak to your midwife. They will help you check how well your baby is feeding and any difficulties you may be having. There will be many times when your baby is doing well with a gap in poo, yet it is better to be careful and to seek support to help guide you. To discuss this, or any question, ask your midwife or call the National Breastfeeding Helpline, 0300 100 0212, open 9.30am-9.30pm, every day of the year. It’s important to stay connected so call as often as you like.
Link to all the breastfeeding support available during COVID-19 https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/breastfeeding-support-in-the-uk-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-situation/
These links below can make it all seem easy when the reality may be harder. Talk it through with someone on the helpline as they are skilled at knowing how to help.
See colour changes of baby poo on p17 https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/otbs_leaflet.pdf
Beginning breastfeeding https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/breastfeeding-positioning-attachment/
Longer, ten minute, video showing more detail on attachment and how babies signal they are ready to feed through feeding cues https://globalhealthmedia.org/portfolio-items/attaching-your-baby-at-the-breast/
First feeds https://web.bestbeginnings.org.uk/web/video/your-babys-first-feed-1041/videos
Feeding on day 2 – to show babies need to calm to feed. Too upset on first try https://www.breastfeedinginc.ca/baby-28-hours-old-assisted-latching
How can I increase the amount of breastfeeds? I’m breastfeeding and also giving bottles of formula.
I have stopped breastfeeding, can I restart?
Is sharing breastmilk safe during coronavirus?
Is donor breastmilk from a milk bank an option?
Health workers expressing milk at work
Breastfeeding support in the UK during the COVID-19 situation
- National Breastfeeding Helpline (run by the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers and the Breastfeeding Network) – 0300 100 0212 Open 9.30am-9.30pm, every day of the year. This line also includes an option for Welsh and Polish language support.
- Breastfeeding Network Bengali/Sylheti Helpline 0300 456 2421
- The National Breastfeeding Helpline also provides support via web chat at www.nationalbreastfeedinghelpline.org.uk and via Facebook messenger www.facebook.com/nationalbreastfeedinghelpline
- The Breastfeeding Network’s Drugs in Breastmilk Information service offers evidence based info on the safety of medications and treatments during breastfeeding. A series of fact sheets covering a wide range of issues and medications can be found at: www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/drugs-factsheets Or you can message the BfN Drugs in Breastmilk Information page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BfNDrugsinBreastmilkinformation Or email druginformation@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk
- La Leche League – 0345 120 2918 (8am-11pm) and visit https://www.laleche.org.uk/get-support/ for a range of online and telephone breastfeeding support options.
- NCT – 0300 330 0700 Feeding line (8am-midnight) https://www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/feeding/early-days/breastfeeding-support-nct
- You can also contact your local health visiting team or local infant feeding support team to see what other resources are available. An internet search using ‘breastfeeding’ and the name of your town or county will usually get you to the right teams. In many areas, there are increased levels of phone support and support available online and through video.
- You can also visit lcgb.org to find a local lactation consultant: https://www.lcgb.org/find-an-ibclc/. Many are offering additional remote support options.
- There are several reliable sources of online information about breastfeeding, talking about what’s normal and how to deal with problems, including: https://www.laleche.org.uk/ www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk www.abm.me.uk https://www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/feeding https://breastfeeding.support/ https://globalhealthmedia.org/videos/breastfeeding/
- The national charity Best Beginnings has created Baby Buddy, the free NHS approved app for pregnant women and new parents includes supportive daily information about breastfeeding, maternal mental health and more. Also, within the app you can watch over 30 films about breastfeeding including practical films on positioning and attachment. For anyone wanting to see the breastfeeding films via a website, you can click here: https://web.bestbeginnings.org.uk/web/videos/breastfeeding
- For joint expert information from midwives and doctors on breastfeeding and caring for a baby during a COVID-19 infection or suspected infection, please visit this site and scroll down to find the later questions: https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/guidelines-research-services/guidelines/coronavirus-pregnancy/covid-19-virus-infection-and-pregnancy/
- UNICEF Baby Friendly also has some useful resources here: https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/COVID-19/
This information was prepared jointly by the breastfeeding support organisations.
If you are finding it hard to find your baby’s usual brand of infant formula
Protecting your mental health during anxious times
- One You https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
- Lots of good information here plus links to online CBT modules here: https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/anxiety/
- Mental Health Foundation have published a very good guide here https://mentalhealth.org.uk/coronavirus/staying-at-home
- BfN’s Big Tea Break – Moment of Calm https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9T3KRiO2kaE – everyday should include at least 5 minutes of calm!
- Anxiety UK have resources specific to coronavirus https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/coronanxiety-support-resources/
- Headspace has a section on stress and anxiety which may help you ground yourself by listening to your breathing, e.g. https://www.headspace.com/meditation/anxiety
- https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/#collapse834e3
Useful information for supporting children
Mindheart has published a short book to support and reassure children under the age of 7 about coronavirus. Covibook is available to download in 21 languages including English. Read the news story: #COVIBOOK Supporting and reassuring children around the world
Read the book: Covibook (PDF)
Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families has published advice and guidance for Parents and Carers and Schools
https://www.annafreud.org/what-we-do/anna-freud-learning-network/coronavirus/
Coronavirus, mental health, wellbeing There is much that each one of us can do to support the wellbeing of those in our lives. We don’t know whether the coronavirus situation will impact on children and young people’s mental health, but we think that it may. |
The Association for Child Mental Health has released a podcast discussing the coronavirus and children and young people’s mental health.
Read the news story and listen to the podcast: https://player.fm/series/association-for-child-and-adolescent-mental-health-acamh/dr-jon-goldin-on-the-coronavirus-and-child-mental-health
Information about online safety
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/
You can find a summary and original NSPCC sources of information we have described above here
https://parentinfantfoundation.org.uk/first-advice-on-safeguarding/