Trust event promotes merits of breastfeeding to locals

The NHS Trust is supporting national Breastfeeding Awareness Week, by encouraging new parents and their families to become more informed around the benefits of breastfeeding

Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust is supporting national Breastfeeding Awareness Week, by encouraging new parents and their families to become more informed around the benefits of breastfeeding.

The Trust, in partnership with the borough’s Children Centres, will be manning a special stand at Rochdale Central Library between 12pm and 1pm every day during Breastfeeding Awareness Week, which is running between the 24 and 30 of June, to provide information and answer questions around the subject of breastfeeding.

The Trust has also been working in partnership with Rochdale Council’s Public Health Department, which has donated a range of books around breastfeeding and childcare that will also be on display at the library a week prior and during Breastfeeding Awareness week. The books, which cover a wide array of topics ranging from breastfeeding and night time parenting, to moving onto family foods, becoming a father and baby-led weaning, will be available from any library across the borough following the event.

Commenting on the Trust’s support, Val Rimmer, Infant Feeding Coordinator for Pennine Care, said: “We’re committed to working with the local community to encourage support for breastfeeding. Many women find the prospect very daunting and our trained breastfeeding champions, who will be manning the stand during the week, will be able to give those interested, advice and information to help or encourage them to breastfeed.

“Indeed, breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed babies, as it not only gives them all the nutrients that they need but also helps to build a strong physical and emotional bond with the mother. And it’s good for the mum too, as research has shown that it lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and can help to burn up to 500 calories a day.”

Dr Danielle Peet, local GP and Clinical Lead for Women’s and Children’s Services at Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We are working closely with healthcare providers in the borough to ensure pregnant women and new mothers receive the advice and support they need around infant feeding and welcome this dedicated week of sessions to promote and encourage breastfeeding.”

Councillor Donna Martin, Cabinet Member for children, schools and families at Rochdale Borough Council, added: “Breastfeeding is increasingly popular amongst new mothers as the health benefits to both baby and mum are great. Rich in nutrients, breast milk helps improve the baby’s immune system and triggers healthy growth. It’s also a low cost option that can save families money as formula milk is expensive.

“Providing expecting parents with the most relevant and factually accurate information in preparation for parenthood is extremely important. I’m thrilled that new families across the borough will be able to access this literature in our libraries. The library is a wonderful environment for learning and is family-friendly and events like these reach out to new readers to educate, advise and inform.”

For more information about the event call 01706 764734.