The Channel 4 Dispatches programme, the Great Formula Milk Scandal, shown on Monday 18th March highlighted the actions of the formula industry that put their profits before the health of babies and mothers.

The Human Milk Foundation was not part of the making of this programme, but we understand that the issues it raised may have raised some difficult feelings. If you have been affected by the issues raised, there are a number of organisations you can contact for support and information:

The Breastfeeding Network

First Steps Nutrition Trust

Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative

We believe that an entire overhaul of how new mothers are looked after in the UK is called for. Mothers who want to breastfeed urgently need better support – although more than 80% of pregnant women want to breastfeed exclusively to 6 months only a tiny minority actually do.

At the Human Milk Foundation, we believe that there are many simple ways that new mothers can be supported better. Join with us and other organisations to make these vital initiatives possible:

1. Improved access to specialised lactation support before and after baby arrives, particularly if mum has had a difficult previous experience
2. Ready availabilty of screened donor milk if baby needs top-up feeds while mum is establishing her own feeds – a safe alternative to formula can make all the difference to some
3. Specialist training in medical schools and schools programmes in human milk science and lactation support, so the next generation builds their knowledge and expertise

Let’s start making things better for the next generation