About
My interest in breastfeeding support grew from my own experiences of feeding my four children. I had little support outside my family and soon realised how limited both peer and specialist help could be. After breastfeeding my first two children, I began informally supporting other parents. When my third son was born, I decided to take an NHS Peer Supporter course, which allowed me to offer breastfeeding support to parents in the local community and on the postnatal ward.
I loved this work but wanted to deepen my knowledge, so I undertook the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (ABM) Breastfeeding Counsellor Course. After qualifying, I set up a local breastfeeding support group that I facilitated weekly and began volunteering for the National Breastfeeding Helpline. I continue to be involved with the ABM as a Breastfeeding Counsellor.
In 2016, I passed the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) exam and have been offering this specialist level of support ever since.
My professional background is primarily in Accident and Emergency Nursing, though I’ve also held various roles in community settings. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Nursing and a PGDip in Advanced Clinical Practice, which enabled me to work as a Nurse Practitioner within the NHS. I’ve also gained experience within the Health Visiting team.
In 2017, I completed training at University Hospital Southampton in assessing and performing tongue-tie division. While I chose not to carry out tongue-tie procedures, I am qualified to assess tongue function and advise accordingly.
Alongside my private and voluntary practice, I ran a large Facebook support community which was active for more than 10 years. Through this, I’ve developed extensive experience supporting parents remotely.
My aim is to help parents reach their own feeding goals, whatever they may be. I provide evidence-based information and compassionate support to help families make informed choices about how to feed their babies — whether that’s exclusive breastfeeding, combination feeding, expressing, or formula feeding.
I am also passionate about ensuring that all families can access breastfeeding support, regardless of their financial situation. I understand that being on maternity pay can make funds limited, so please do still get in touch if you’re unable to afford my private services — together we can find an affordable option that works for you
What is an IBCLC?
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is the highest level of breastfeeding qualification available. IBCLCs either have a healthcare background or must complete 14 health science-related subjects before applying for the exam. To qualify, they also complete 95 hours of lactation-specific training and a minimum of 1,000 hours of clinical practice.
IBCLCs must recertify every five years, providing evidence of:
At least 75 hours of continuing education
250 hours of clinical practice
A recent basic life support course
IBCLCs can support families with complex feeding challenges, including:
Slow weight gain
Tongue function assessments
Reflux or non-latching babies
Hypoplasia or low milk supply
As well as more straightforward breastfeeding support
All IBCLCs adhere to the IBLCE Code of Professional Conduct and carry full professional liability insurance. Most UK IBCLCs are also members of The Lactation Consultants of Great Britain.
Important note: The title “Lactation Consultant” is not legally protected — anyone can use it. Always check that your specialist is a certified IBCLC and that their certification is current on the IBLCE registry.
