Breastfeeding in public is a topic that often sparks debate, yet for many mothers, it is simply a practical necessity of daily life, whether they are visiting a friend’s home, sitting in a Manchester coffee shop, or navigating a busy shopping centre.
Recent data and surveys from NHS Start for Life consistently show that the vast majority of the public supports a woman’s right to breastfeed in public. However, despite this broad social acceptance, reports still surface of mothers being confronted by staff or asked to leave business premises while feeding.
Your Rights Under the Equality Act 2010
In the UK, your rights are clearly protected under the Equality Act 2010. It is illegal for anyone to ask a breastfeeding woman to leave a public place, and a business cannot discriminate against a mother who is breastfeeding a child of any age.
According to the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), it is considered “unfavourable treatment” to ask a woman to stop breastfeeding or to leave a venue because she is doing so.
Specifically, the law means:
- No Refusal of Service: It is unlawful for owners or staff to refuse to serve you because you are breastfeeding.
- No Exclusion: Staff cannot ask you (or those with you) to leave a shop, café, or leisure centre because you are feeding your baby.
- Total Public Access: You are within your rights to breastfeed in all public open spaces, including parks, high-street benches, and public transport (buses, trains, and trams).
- Protected Venues: Your protection extends to hospitals, theatres, cinemas, petrol stations, and galleries.
The Responsibility of Businesses
Businesses in England and Wales have a proactive duty to ensure they are not discriminating against mothers. This includes:
- Allowing Breastfeeding: Ensuring any woman receiving a service—from a quick cup of coffee to an afternoon at an ice-skating rink—is allowed to feed on the premises.
- Preventing Harassment: Protecting mothers from being harassed or victimised by other customers or staff members.
- Staff Awareness: Providing adequate training so that employees understand the legal protections provided to breastfeeding mothers.
Local Support: The Manchester & Salford Connection
The North West has seen significant progress in creating “breastfeeding-friendly” zones. A standout example is the BOOBS (Be Open on Breastfeeding in Salford) scheme. This revamped initiative encourages venues, ranging from Manchester Airport’s Runway 26 to local community hubs, to display “Breastfeeding Welcome” posters.
These schemes provide mothers with the confidence that they are entering a space where their rights are not just known, but actively welcomed.
What to Do if You Face Discrimination
While major brands like Costa have historically issued apologies following incidents of breastfeeding discrimination, the law remains your primary shield. If a business asks you to leave, requests that you “cover up” against your will, or refuses you service, they are likely in breach of the Equality Act.
If you experience such treatment, it is important to document the incident and seek professional advice to understand how to hold the organisation accountable.
To speak to Gorvins about your rights surrounding maternity leave and pregnancy, or if you have an employment issue in the workplace, call 0161 930 5151 or alternatively, you can email enquiries@gorvins.com.