The ABM's core aim is to promote the physical and psychological health of mothers and children through education in the techniques of breastfeeding; and to advance the education of the public and especially those persons concerned with the care of children on the health benefits, both immediate and long-term, of breastfeeding.
The ABM Is a small charity with wide reach and increasing engagement. Our main focus is supporting families via calls on the National Breastfeeding Helpline, in partnership with The Breastfeeding Network (as well as via Webchat, Social Media messages and emails, 365 days of the year). During the 12 months from the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, we took a total of 13,950 helpline calls totaling over 4500 hours of talk-time, 63% of these were taken by the ABM, along with 2271 social media messages and 1641 Webchat messages.
We train breastfeeding supporters, counsellors and their families with up-to-date and evidence-based information. We also provide training to healthcare professionals and those in related paid roles. Some of our volunteers also run in-person groups and classes. We currently have over 500 qualified Peer Supporters, 130 Breastfeeding Counsellors, and hundreds more in training.
We run an annual conference, most recently reaching 500 participants online, and publish a magazine 3 times a year. Our membership has grown 64% in 3 years.
