Greenwich parents will be able to borrow breast pumps for free from next year for four to six weeks at a time.

The initiative, meant to help families experiencing financial hardship, is funded through the borough’s Family Hubs programme.

Family Hubs provides parenting guidance, child development support and health and wellbeing services for Greenwich residents from pregnancy until the child turns 19 (or up to 25 for those with special educational needs).

Ordinary breast pumps start at roughly £70, while the more powerful hospital-grade models start at about £160. Hospital-grade pumps are able to help mothers establish a more plentiful milk supply.

Claire Bennett, senior public health manager of Greenwich borough, said at the council’s regular health and adult social care scrutiny meeting that hospital-grade pumps had been purchased. “So, if someone is using a breast pump in a neonatal care, they can continue using it after leaving the hospital,” she said. Neonatal care is specialist medical attention for newborns or premature births. Parents will also receive guidance from infant feeding specialists.

Bennett also highlighted that an emergency formula support service is available at the infant feeding clinic for families who are struggling to access baby formula. Specialists at the clinic provide guidance and practical help to ensure babies receive the nutrition they need.

Bennett added that the scheme will be delivered through existing local family support services, as part of Family Hubs, working alongside with maternity and health visitors and children’s services.