Businesses in Jersey are being asked to share breastfeeding facilities.

The Social Security Minister has made the plea, as she waits for delayed family friendly employments rights to return to the States for debate.

They aim to improve support for new mothers.

Deputy Judy Martin is appealing to employers and parishes to share their spaces with neighbours where possible.

" I am very aware that for some businesses, having  a facility for women to either breastfeed or express milk and refrigerate it provides a significant challenge.  Therefore I want to help businesses prepare for the proposed changes coming in to force by collating a list of breastfeeding facilities that businesses and parishes are happy to share.  I believe this will make it easier for smaller businesses to recruit and retain new mothers in their workforce."

The Chamber of Commerce says it is 'common sense', but is also calling on the government to do its bit by sharing its own facilities.

"These changes in the law will come at a cost to businesses, so we'd also ask the government to make sure their buildings are available for breastfeeding and refrigeration facilities in the first case for those businesses that are unable to make the changes to their own buildings." - Murray Norton, CEO

Firms happy to share their facilities with working mothers are being asked to complete this survey by 30th September.