World Breast Pumping Day, celebrated annually on January 27th, is a day dedicated to recognising the incredible effort that goes into providing breast milk through pumping. This day exists to honour the resilience and commitment of mothers who navigate the challenges of expressing milk, whether to overcome feeding difficulties, support premature babies, or balance the demands of work and parenthood.
World Breast Pumping Day is also an opportunity to spark conversations around how we can better support breastfeeding and pumping parents in all areas of life.
Why Does World Breast Pumping Day Matter for Working Parents?
World Breast Pumping Day shines a spotlight on the unique challenges faced by mothers who pump while navigating paid employment. From finding time in a busy workday to securing a private space to pump, these women deserve recognition and support.
It’s also a day to highlight the importance of employer support in enabling working parents to continue their breastfeeding journeys. Legislation like the Equality Act 2010 and the Health and Safety Executive’s Workplace Regulations require employers to consider the needs of breastfeeding employees, but there’s still progress to be made in ensuring that every workplace is truly breastfeeding-friendly.
The Importance of Workplace Support
Breast pumps have become an essential tool for working mothers, offering flexibility and helping to maintain milk supply. But even the best equipment cannot replace the need for a supportive environment.
Employers who create a positive space for pumping not only comply with legal requirements but also foster loyalty, well-being, and productivity in their workforce. Practical steps include providing clean, private spaces for pumping, offering flexible schedules, and normalising conversations around breastfeeding in the workplace.
Grace Redmond using a Pippeta wearable pump at work
Tips for Pumping at Work
If you’re a working parent managing your pumping routine, here are some strategies to help:
- Know Your Rights: In the UK, employers are required to provide suitable rest facilities for breastfeeding employees. Familiarise yourself with your company’s policies and the legal framework.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule your pumping breaks around your workday. Consistency is key to maintaining your supply.
- Communicate Your Needs: Speak openly with your employer or HR team about your requirements. It’s their responsibility to provide reasonable adjustments. For help with this, contact Nourish for guidance.
- Stay Organised: Keep your pumping essentials handy, including breast milk storage bags, cleaning supplies, and a portable cooler.
- Seek Support: Connect with other working mothers or support groups to share tips and experiences.
How Employers Can Support Pumping Parents
Employers play a critical role in empowering women to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. Here are some practical steps UK employers can take:
- Provide Dedicated Spaces: A clean, private room with access to power outlets and a comfortable chair can make all the difference.
- Offer Flexible Breaks: Allowing time for pumping during the workday shows understanding and support.
- Raise Awareness: Training managers and staff about the needs of breastfeeding employees can create a more inclusive and understanding workplace culture. At Nourish, we can help make this as pain-free as possible – contact us today.
- Invest in Facilities: Providing fridges for milk storage and clear policies on breastfeeding in the workplace can go a long way in supporting parents.
Acknowledging the Challenges
Pumping at work can be demanding, both physically and emotionally. Long meetings, lack of suitable spaces, or unsupportive colleagues can make the process even harder. On World Breast Pumping Day, let’s acknowledge these challenges and push for better workplace environments that allow all parents to thrive.
Advocating for Change in the UK
World Breast Pumping Day is also a call to action for employers, policymakers, and communities to create more equitable workplaces. This includes advocating for policies that make it easier for parents to pump at work, such as improving paid parental leave and ensuring compliance with breastfeeding-friendly workplace guidelines.
Celebrating Resilience
For working mothers, every drop of expressed milk represents a triumph over logistical, physical, and emotional challenges. World Breast Pumping Day is a chance to celebrate this incredible resilience while pushing for a future where pumping at work is fully supported and normalised.
The Nourish Consultancy is here to help employers and employees create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces. From expert guidance on policy development to tailored support for parents, we’re committed to making a positive difference. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you.
