We are working with For Baby’s Sake to create resources that help our volunteers and teams to identify and support callers experiencing domestic abuse.
The annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global call to action—an opportunity to pause, reflect, and renew our commitment to creating safe, nurturing environments for every family. At The Breastfeeding Network, we know that supporting infant feeding means supporting women and families at a vulnerable time.
The figures around the prevalence of domestic violence towards babies and parents highlight why it is crucial to consider this in work with new parents: 1 in 5 children in the UK experience domestic abuse, and 1 in 3 parents have experienced a partner using abusive behaviour towards them.
In this blog, we share some of the work we have done over recent months to increase understanding of the risk factors for domestic abuse, the flags to look out for during calls or support, and how we can build on our support to callers.
For Baby’s Sake is a charity committed to breaking cycles of domestic abuse and supporting parents to build safe, secure relationships with their babies. Together, we are further developing the practice of volunteers and staff teams in recognising, responding to, and compassionately holding conversations around domestic abuse.
What have we done?
A For Baby’s Sake webinar for our National Breastfeeding Helpline volunteer and staff team provided an opportunity for reflection and deeper learning on:
- Understanding the impact of domestic violence on parents, babies, and children.
- Having conversations around domestic abuse
- Signposting key resources and places families can seek help.
Following this webinar, a one-page crib sheet will help volunteers live on calls. This has been co-produced with For Baby’s Sake and our team members to ensure it is evidence-based and user-friendly.
By collaborating with a range of other organisations, we deepen our understanding of different issues our callers may be facing, improve our practice and help organisations with specialisms in other work areas to better respond to the realities of women and families on their infant feeding journeys.
The National Breastfeeding Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call 0300 100 212 for infant feeding support, or message directly on Facebook or Instagram.
The For Baby’s Sake Trust is a registered charity (1126459) focused on breaking cycles of domestic abuse, tackling the root causes and giving babies the best start in life. Find out more about their work, here.