BUSINESSES are being urged to back a campaign giving women confidence to breastfeed in a public place without feeling anxious.

Basildon Council has signed up to the Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme, and will now display stickers in all its buildings to make mums feel comfortable.

The council now wants businesses to follow suit as part of the bold initiative.

Anna Davis, a 36-year-old mum from Langdon Hills, said: “I think it’s a good idea because women do feel nervous about breastfeeding in public.

“I remember being at a restaurant and my baby needed feeding so I went to the car.

“At the beginning I was very nervous but after a few months I became more confident.

“I definitely support encouraging people to breastfeed but I wouldn’t want women to feel like they can’t breastfeed in some places if they don’t have a sticker.

“It’s a basic human right.

“It shouldn’t be something they have to question.”

Labour Basildon councillor Maryam Yaqub, who called for the council to spearhead the campaign, stated it is important making breastfeeding a normal part of our society.

Ms Yaqub, who represents St Martin’s ward, said: “All council-owned buildings signed up to the scheme but there’s a difference between being signed up and actually having the stickers up.

“I think breastfeeding is just a basic right and a lot of people aren’t aware that it’s perfectly legal to breastfeed your child in any public place.

“Even when people aren’t saying anything you’re made to feel uncomfortable so it’s about normalising breast feeding.

“It’s about the acceptance and embracing breastfeeding.”

Louise Ford, who runs website Essex Mums, said: “I think it’s a great idea. Anything we can do to make sure mums know that it’s OK is a lovely thing.

“I think it would really help them. I remember my first time and not being sure about whether I could breastfeed in some places I went to and getting funny looks.

“Knowing you have that businesses support would make you feel comfortable if you get a funny look.”