Peer support

Trained and accredited by individual organisations (sometimes college accredited). Peers are mothers who have (usually) breastfed themselves, and wish to support others.

Also known as Peer Counsellor, Mother Supporter, Helper, Breastfeeding Buddy etc. 

Breastfeeding Counsellor (BFC)

Trained and accredited by individual organisations (sometimes university accredited). BFCs are mothers with lived experience of breastfeeding. They have extensive in-depth counselling skills and infant feeding knowledge having studied for an average of 2 years. Breastfeeding Counsellors can support parents with complex infant feeding issues.

Also known as Breastfeeding Supporter (BfN), Breastfeeding Leader (LLL). 

International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)

IBCLC is the only internationally recognised professional breastfeeding qualification. IBCLCs are usually health professionals and accredited BFCs who have undertaken advanced lactation education and have extensive clinical experience. 

Sometimes shortened to Lactation Consultant. 

NHS Infant Feeding Advisor

Employed by the NHS to provide infant feeding support in the community, usually within the health visiting team. Infant feeding advisors are all trained to support mothers with feeding. They have done extra training through UNICEF and have a passion for infant feeding. Some have undertaken further training and all are supported by the Infant feeding lead.