Some mums believe breast is best when it comes to feeding their babies, but it’s not always the easiest thing to master.

According to the latest national research, the number of breastfeeding mums fell from 81% at birth to 69% at one week, and to 55% at six weeks.

At six months, just over a third of mothers were still persevering.

To help encourage mothers to continue, Kent County Council is training peers for parents in need of advice and support.

Cllr Jenny Whittle, mum to seven-month-old Olivia and Katie, seven, is leading the campaign.

She said: “At the end of the day, mums know what is best for their baby and we’re not trying to say one way is right and another is wrong.

“We just want to ensure mums know where to turn for help if they do choose to breastfeed, as the early weeks can be exhausting particularly in getting baby to properly latch on to the breast.

“I know from personal experience that breastfeeding gets a lot easier after the early days.”

On top of the 100 peers already being trained at children’s centres including Greenfields, Rutland Way, Shepway, KCC hopes more will sign up.

Mum-of-two Charlotte Callow, 29, from Boughton Monchelsea, is one of the volunteer trainees.

She said: “I think people will feel more comfortable getting support and advice from someone who has actually been through it.

“It’s a lot less formal than it would be talking to a professional and they know that we understand what they’re going through.”

To coincide with the initiative, which was launched on Mother’s Day, KCC is encouraging businesses to be more breastfeeding friendly. Pops’ Cafe in Maidstone High Street has been praised as a good example.

Liz Willmott, 28, from Fant, said: “It’s great as there are comfortable seating areas, but there’s also spots where you can be discreet if you wish to be.”

For more information, visit www.kentbabymatters.org

Mums can also share their experiences on the best places to breastfeed by tweeting #kentbreastfeeding