Infant Feeding Group – helping parents build confidence and support networks
Parents attending the Infant Feeding Group at John Perryn Children’s Centre in East Acton have shared how the service has helped them gain confidence, access expert advice and connect with other families in their local community.
Watch the video below that features three parents who regularly attend the group and highlights the positive impact it has had on their parenting journey.
The Infant Feeding Group provides support and advice on breastfeeding and infant feeding, helping parents overcome common challenges and build confidence in caring for their babies. The sessions are led by experienced health professionals who offer practical guidance and answer questions in a welcoming and supportive environment.
For many new parents, the transition into parenthood can be both exciting and overwhelming. While welcoming a new baby is a joyful experience, it can also bring feelings of anxiety, isolation and uncertainty. Having access to local services and professional support can make a significant difference during this important stage of family life.
Nicole Stephens, Infant Feeding and Healthy Weight Lead for Ealing said:
“We know that feeding a new baby can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly for first-time parents or those who may not have a strong support network around them. Our Infant Feeding Group provides a welcoming and non-judgemental space where parents can ask questions, receive evidence-based advice and gain reassurance from both our team and other families who are going through similar experiences.”
Parents featured in the video spoke about the strong sense of community created by the group. As well as receiving infant feeding support, families are introduced to a range of services available at John Perryn Children’s Centre, including baby massage classes and other activities designed to support children and families.
One parent also highlighted the close working relationship between the Infant Feeding Team and her GP practice, explaining how information about her baby’s development and weight is shared appropriately to ensure she receives joined-up support. This collaborative approach helps families access the right care at the right time and ensures professionals can work together to support both parent and baby.
The group also provides an opportunity for parents to meet others who may be experiencing similar challenges, share experiences and build lasting friendships. For some families, these connections can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and create a valuable support network during the early months of parenthood.
Importantly, regular contact with health professionals allows staff to identify parents who may need additional support with their emotional wellbeing. This includes signposting families to appropriate services when concerns arise around mental health, including postnatal depression.
By bringing together expert advice, peer support, early intervention and access to wider community services, the Infant Feeding Group continues to play an important role in helping local families feel supported and informed during the early stages of parenthood. It is an example of how community-based services can improve outcomes for families while strengthening connections between healthcare professionals, local services and the communities they serve.
