Appendix 10 - Barnet Breastfeeding Support and Referral form

Breastfeeding has huge benefits in children with DS if it can be established, in a positive and supportive way.  Not only to reduce infections (particularly respiratory and gut) but also to help with jaw development/our chewing and speech muscle development and if the baby is at risk of aspirating (some of the babies had swallowing difficulties) then breastmilk is “safer” for the lungs than formula milk.  We need to give support and practical help for families so they can make informed decisions, and not make any assumptions or judgments based on the child’s additional special needs.

In Barnet, the Breastfeeding Support Service can also provide home visits for mums who meet any of the following criteria:

  1. Mum has had a caesarean (within 6 weeks and not out and about) or;

  2. They have another child under 4 at home or;

  3. Mum won’t leave home for cultural & religious reasons (i.e. “40 day rest period”)

The Breastfeeding Support Service wants mothers and professionals to know that they not only offer support with exclusive breastfeeding but also offers support to mothers:

  • on stopping breastfeeding - both practically and counseling if mother needs

  • on how to keep one breastfeed going, even if the other feeds are not breastmilk/breastfeeds

  • who are expressing breastmilk and giving it by bottle

  • who start to supplement with formula after breastfeeding or who are mix feeding with both breast and formula milk.

Support groups and drop-ins run in children’s centres throughout the borough. 

Please email for further information or to make a referral:  CLCHT.Breastfeedingsupport@nhs.net

Tongue-tie

Sharon Floyd is the Infant Feeding Midwife/Tongue Tie Lead  

  • Royal Free site via bleep 2768 or ext: 36311.

  • Barnet site ext: 65141.

  • Sharon is also available in the Tongue Tie Clinic (Wednesdays only) 0207 830 2144 or ext: 37778.