New consultants empower breastfeeding mums

Rose Bennett, Health Visitor with her certificate

Five health visitors from the borough - Rose Bennett, Amanda Hadlow, Margaret McLaughlin, Tina Schofield and Vicky Thomas, health visitors with Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust - have been appointed the title of international board certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs).

While health visitors are qualified to give support and advice to mums, the new IBCLCs are further qualified to address the more complex issues that they may face.

The team were required to show a wide range of knowledge on breastfeeding, along with demonstrating 1,000 hours of clinical practice and 90 hours of education before taking their exam.

Rose Bennett said: “Breastfeeding is widely known as the best method to feed a baby due to all the health benefits for both mother and baby.

”Attending and completing the course has increased my knowledge - our aim is to utilise these skills and further support mothers to have a positive breastfeeding experience.”

Luisa Newton, health visiting professional lead, said: “I would like to congratulate the five health visitors who have achieved certification.

“We are committed to ensuring our clients receive the support they require to breastfeed and to fulfil their breastfeeding goals.

“We are proud to provide the specialised skills and experience needed to support them.”