I was delighted to join the Women in Business NI “Babies & Bumps Networking” event recently as a panel member – an inspiring morning connecting with parents, expectant mothers, and professionals passionate about supporting women through the transitions of pregnancy, parenthood, and return to work.
The event created such a warm and open space for conversation – from the realities of early motherhood to the challenges of balancing career, feeding, and self-care.
As someone who’s turned my own lived experience into two ventures — Boobingit and The Nourish Consultancy – I was asked what inspired me to do this work. The truth is, it grew out of both challenge and community. Like so many mothers, I faced my share of struggles during those early months of feeding and returning to work. I realised how much difference the right support makes – and how powerful it can be when mothers are seen, heard, and understood in both their personal and professional lives.
Through The Nourish Consultancy, I now help employers create parent-friendly workplaces – ones that recognise that supporting breastfeeding, flexible working, and family wellbeing benefits everyone.
On balancing breastfeeding and work
When asked for advice for mothers worried about returning to work while breastfeeding or pumping, I shared that the first step is communication. Speak up early and inform your employer and childcare provider about your intention to continue breastfeeding. Opening that conversation allows plans to be made in advance, reducing stress when you return.
If expressing milk at work, don’t be afraid to request a suitable space – one that’s private, secure, has a lock and plug sockets, and ideally is close to your normal working area. Employers don’t need elaborate facilities, just practical, thoughtful spaces that make expressing possible. A small fridge or dedicated storage space can also make a huge difference.
The power of support networks
I was also asked about the role of networks – both personal and professional – in supporting mothers. My answer? They’re everything.
At home, it’s often the encouragement of a partner, family, or friends that keeps a mother going through those early days. At work, it’s compassionate colleagues, understanding managers, and open policies that create real inclusion. We can’t do this alone — nor should we have to.
One piece of advice for mums returning to work
If I could share one takeaway, it’s this: don’t stay silent about your needs. By starting the conversation, you not only make your own experience smoother, you pave the way for the next parent too.
I left the event feeling incredibly inspired by the stories shared and the sense of community in the room. Thank you to Women in Business NI for hosting such an important and supportive space for discussion.
Events like this remind me why the work of The Nourish Consultancy matters — because creating workplaces that truly support parents helps everyone thrive.
If your organisation wants to explore how to better support breastfeeding and returning parents, I’d love to chat. You can contact me here.