I'd like to train as a bf counsellor... can anyone advise?

[Picante]

I'd just like to know what it entails - are there different levels? Do they have training at the weekends? How long does it take?

It depends on what you want to do with it, and which organisation you train with, tbh.

I know about the BfN training - there are two levels - helper and supporter. Helper takes about 12 weeks, supporter takes about 8 months, with 17 or 18 classes.

Both courses are free. The courses I know of have been in the daytime with free creches, but some areas may run classes in the evening, I don't know.

I think the ABM does its training remotely. I don't know much about LLL training or NCT training. It's probably worth looking into what sort of training is offered in your area, to decide what you should do.

Cool. I don't think it would ever turn into a 'job', but I'd love to be able to help at coffee mornings or hospital drop-ins. I'll check out the BfN helper training - thanks.

LLL training takes as long as you want it to (within reason). You can do it remotely i.e if there are no groups/leaders in your area or if you are part of a group can you do some of it with a local Leader.
With LLL you can do it by post or e-mail and if you do need to attend things the won't have a problem with you taking DC(s) along. It's all about the babies and working round them

Slight hijack, but whilst people are answering that, I'd be really interested to learn what's involved in becoming a peer supporter. I think that's the NCT name. Is that a helper in BfN?

Depends where you are. Surestart often run peer support schemes. The ones round here usually involve 18 hours (2 x 9 weeks) of training.

NCT have breasfeeding counsellors who train to diploma level over about 3 years. There are also NCT peer supporters who train over a period of about 12 weeks, usually.

Other organisations have similar training, and peer supporter is not just an NCT term.

For NCT training, see the website [http://www.nct.org.uk]] and click on the training option.

Thanks all. Have contacted BfN - waiting to see if they have any courses in my area. Otherwise LLL sounds like a good option.

BfN call their more junior supporters 'helpers', and the more trained ones, 'supporters'. So you would be looking for a helper course - you have to do that before doing the supporter course, anyway.