Breastfeeding peer support (BPS): Qualitative case study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Ecological and complex systems thinking applied to infant feeding policy and intervention: Case study of breastfeeding peer support within a low income community in Wales
IRAS ID
142342
Contact name
Heather Trickey
Contact email
Research summary
Increased scientific consensus about the evidence for poorer health outcomes associated with formula feeding has led to a policy drive to improve breastfeeding rates. In Wales, a breastfeeding strategy, which was intended to influence the wider context for infant feeding decisions, has been in place since 2001. Despite this, in less affluent communities there has been no evidence of a shift towards a culture in which breastfeeding beyond the early days is normalised.
Breastfeeding peer support interventions involve training women who have themselves breastfed to provide support to other members of their community. They aim to enhance women’s social networks and complement professional health services. Breastfeeding peer support interventions are recommended by the World Health Organisation, by NICE guidance and forms part of the Welsh Breastfeeding Strategy.
This research comprises a qualitative case study of a breastfeeding peer support intervention within in a target Flying Start low income community that is believed by local NHS professionals to be having some impact on breastfeeding rates. The case study explores the mechanisms involved in ‘change-work’ from the perspective of peer supporters (e.g., through providing role models, through direct support, or through local activism), health professionals and other community members. It seeks to identify the aspects of the context that either amplify or dampen any change-work that is identified; for example, factors related to training, to the wider infant feeding policy context, to integration with health and community services, to wider economic and social conditions, to the local environment and historical context of infant feeding.
Methods include: (i) depth-interviews with peer supporters, other local parents, and community stakeholders; (ii) non-participant observation of peer support groups; and (iii) recorded group discussions (focus groups) with local mothers attending groups.
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/0646
Date of REC Opinion
10 Apr 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion