NHS launches new support system for breast-feeeding mothers

Newborn baby

As part of National Breastfeeding Awareness Week, NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale (HMR) and HMR Community Healthcare are launching a new support system for expectant and new mothers.

The breastfeeding volunteer programme will recruit and train mothers who have already breastfed successfully to support others mothers in the community by providing support and guidance.

National Breastfeeding Awareness Week runs from Monday 21st to Sunday 27th June with the aim of promoting the health benefits of breastfeeding to mum and baby, increase social acceptance and promote support for breastfeeding.

Val Rimmer, Infant Feeding Coordinator at HMR Community Healthcare said “Women who start to breastfeed often experience pressure from others to stop, family members and friends can help by providing support and encouragement.

“Social support and acceptance is essential to enable mothers to start breastfeeding and continue breastfeeding.”

If you are interested in the breastfeeding volunteer programme, pre-course information sessions will be held across the borough.

Please contact Volunteer Co-ordinator Amy Gibbons on 0800 121 4406 for information.