Breast is best for these local mums

New mums, their babies and prospective parents heard about the benefits of breastfeeding at an event held at Sedgley Children’s Centre.

The session took place during National Breastfeeding Awareness Week and was supported by Bury breastfeeding peer supporters, children’s centre staff, midwives, health trainers and health visitors, demonstrating how Bury agencies work together to support and protect breastfeeding.

Local midwife Mandy Platt said: “The breastfeeding support groups run from the children’s centres provide invaluable support not only for breastfeeding mums and their families but also for families who are expecting a baby.”

Health experts say there is strong evidence that breastfeeding provides benefits for both mothers and babies. The benefits for mum include a reduction in the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and hip fractures. Benefits for baby include a reduction in the risk of gastroenteritis, ear infections and diabetes.

At the event, Pennine Care Foundation Trust presented three breastfeeding books to the breastfeeding peer support groups. One breastfeeding peer supporter and recent second time mum, Stephanie Walsh, said: “The books will be a very useful resource and can be used by families to prepare their children for the early weeks and months of breastfeeding the new baby.”

Health visitor Leanne Duffy said: “In addition to the children’s centres and health visiting service, Bury families can also access the Health Trainer Service for breastfeeding support, a service that is unique to Bury.”

The Health Trainer service can be contacted on 0845 071 0699.

ENDS

Press release issued: 16 July 2013.

Picture attached: Mums and babies at Sedgley Children’s Centre during Breastfeeding Awareness Week.