with breastfeeding their newborns. Gabriella Jozwiak hears what the job
involves.
![](/media/uh0j3jqf/wmemma-pickett.jpg?width=1002&height=668&bgcolor=White&v=1da4d8e39e22e30)
Emma Pickett is a certified lactation consultant. She works independently, providing one-to-one breastfeeding support to women in north London.
'Many different people support breastfeeding in the UK, such as midwives, health visitors and voluntary breastfeeding counsellors,' she says. 'Being a lactation consultant is a paid role, although a few local authority areas may hire breastfeeding counsellors as peer supporters. Some lactation consultants work in hospital settings or in teams, but I work in private practice.
'I provide consultations part-time, usually two sessions a day, because I have two children and need to collect them from school in the afternoon. Each lasts 90 minutes, sometimes longer, and is delivered in the mother's home. Usually her partner will be present and maybe another friend or relative. It's good to have another pair of ears because at that stage mums are often tired and unable to take in information.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here