Breastfeeding peer support: Health service programmes in Scotland

The objective of this multiple case study was to identify and describe health service breastfeeding peer support programmes operational in urban and rural areas in Scotland between 1995 and 2002. The programmes aimed to increase breastfeeding rates in areas of low initiation. Supporters all had breastfeeding experience and training was provided in eight of the nine programmes. Two models of peer support were identified: individual support at home by trained supporters paired wth pregnant or breastfeeding women and group support between currently breastfeeding mothers, trained or untrained. Supporters’ roles were wide ranging and some became breastfeeding ‘experts’. Professionals were generally supportive of the programmes.