I was born, raised, and still live in South Bristol. I am a mother of two grown up children and combine paid employment, and volunteering with a small business providing lactation consultancy. I breastfed both of my children but not without difficulty, and this inspired me to learn more about it so that I could help other parents.
In 2000 after my second child had been born, I resigned from my job at a well known British bank, and started training as a volunteer breastfeeding counsellor. In 2002, after two years of studying, I qualified with the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (ABM). Since then, I have volunteered on national helplines, facilitated breastfeeding support groups, run clinics and trained local peer supporters for Bristol based projects. In 2011 I passed the International Board Certified Lactation Consultants exam, and re certified in August 2016. In March 2016 I was thrilled to win the Bristol Post Health Care Early Years Award for my work supporting breastfeeding in Bristol.
When working with breastfeeding families who are experiencing difficulties, I unravel what's happened so far, help them decide what outcome they would like to aim for, and then set out practical steps to help. I enjoy helping families overcome breastfeeding challenges, and working with them towards a more positive experience.
I believe that every family has the right to ensure that their baby receives human milk and that most mothers want to breastfeed. I understand that it is not always easy, and occasionally, it is not possible - and yet, I have seen parents combine full formula feeding with breastfeeding for comfort, to the satisfaction of both mum and baby. There are always options which I can present to you and then you can decide what feels right for you and your family.
In 2000 after my second child had been born, I resigned from my job at a well known British bank, and started training as a volunteer breastfeeding counsellor. In 2002, after two years of studying, I qualified with the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (ABM). Since then, I have volunteered on national helplines, facilitated breastfeeding support groups, run clinics and trained local peer supporters for Bristol based projects. In 2011 I passed the International Board Certified Lactation Consultants exam, and re certified in August 2016. In March 2016 I was thrilled to win the Bristol Post Health Care Early Years Award for my work supporting breastfeeding in Bristol.
When working with breastfeeding families who are experiencing difficulties, I unravel what's happened so far, help them decide what outcome they would like to aim for, and then set out practical steps to help. I enjoy helping families overcome breastfeeding challenges, and working with them towards a more positive experience.
I believe that every family has the right to ensure that their baby receives human milk and that most mothers want to breastfeed. I understand that it is not always easy, and occasionally, it is not possible - and yet, I have seen parents combine full formula feeding with breastfeeding for comfort, to the satisfaction of both mum and baby. There are always options which I can present to you and then you can decide what feels right for you and your family.