Feeding First

Updated 29 November 2021

Feeding first is a partnership of two registered midwives trained to support new mothers on their breastfeeding journey. This independent service is small and based in Tadworth, Surrey and the partners provide care in people’s homes. New mothers with babies who struggle with infant feeding can self-refer for advice and support. The partners treat mothers to correct problems that hinder babies from feeding well and offer a frenulotomy service which is the surgical division of severe tongue tie in babies.

The service is registered with the CQC to provide the regulated activities of

• Surgical procedures
• Treatment of disease and disorder

This is our first inspection of this service.

Updated 29 November 2021

The service had the right people to care for patients and keep them safe. The partners had training in key skills, understood how to protect patients from abuse, and managed safety well. The service controlled infection risk well. Partners assessed risks to new mothers and their babies so that they achieved optimal feeding and bonding. Partners kept good care records. The service managed safety well.

Partners provided good care and treatment. They helped mothers to eat and drink enough to ensure adequate breast milk supply. They gave advice on pain relief when needed. Partners were competent and monitored the effectiveness of the service. The partners worked well together for the benefit of new mothers and their babies, advised them on how to lead healthier lives, supported them to make decisions about their care, and had access to good information.

Partners treated women with compassion and kindness, respected their privacy and dignity, took account of their individual needs, and helped them understand their conditions. They provided emotional support to patients, families and carers. The partners were passionate about care and went the extra mile because they understood the importance of establishing bonding and improving mothers’ emotional wellbeing.

The service planned care to meet the needs of local people, took account of mothers individual needs, and made it easy for people to give feedback. People could access the service when they needed it and did not have to wait too long for a consultation.

The partners ran services well using reliable information systems and supported each other to develop their skills. The service’s vision and values focused on providing exceptional care and to improve feeding outcomes for babies. The partners respected, supported and valued each other. The partners were clear about their roles and accountabilities. The service engaged well with patients and the community to plan and manage services and the partnership was committed to continually improving services.

Updated 29 November 2021