News

Families across Worcestershire are being encouraged to access local breastfeeding support as public sector partners come together to mark World Breastfeeding Week (1st to 7th August).

Worcestershire’s Infant Feeding Team, part of the 0-19 Public Health Nursing Service, is using the week to highlight the range of support available to help parents feel informed, confident and supported throughout their infant feeding journey.

The team provides specialist support through breastfeeding support workers, peer support workers, antenatal workshops and Breast Buddies breastfeeding support groups, held across community settings in Worcestershire. 

Sue Harris, Director of Strategy, People and Culture and Baby Friendly Guardian for Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, said: "World Breastfeeding Week is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the support available to families across Worcestershire. We know that feeding a new baby can feel overwhelming at times and every family's experience is unique.”

"Through our Infant Feeding Team, Health Visiting Service and partners across the county, we're committed to ensuring parents have access to evidence-based information, practical support and reassurance whenever they need it, helping give babies the best possible start in life."

Lisa McNally, Director of Public Health at Worcestershire County Council, said: "The earliest days, weeks and months of a child's life provide the foundation for future health and wellbeing. Infant feeding plays a vital role in giving babies the best possible start in life, which is why we are committed to ensuring every family in Worcestershire can access high-quality information, advice and support. Working closely with NHS colleagues and through our Best Start Family Hubs, we want parents to feel informed, supported and confident throughout their infant feeding journey." 

The Worcestershire Infant Feeding Team supports mothers to start and continue breastfeeding while respecting and supporting all infant feeding choices. The service also offers emotional support and practical guidance to families during the early weeks with a new baby.

Breast Buddies breastfeeding support groups are open to all families who are breastfeeding or providing breastmilk to their baby, regardless of their baby's age. 

The groups are run as drop-in sessions, offering support, a friendly chat and the opportunity to meet other local families in a welcoming environment. 

Families can also contact whcnhs.infantfeeding@nhs.net for breastfeeding support and information, including one-to-one support during the first 6 to 8 weeks following birth.

Alongside group support, families can contact the Telephone Advisory Service (TAS) for advice on feeding, development or toileting. Run by the Worcestershire Health Visiting Team, the service is available Monday to Friday, 9am–1pm on 01905 520032.

For more information about local breastfeeding support, workshops and resources, please visit our website: www.hacw.nhs.uk or contact whcnhs.infantfeeding@nhs.net 

Notes

Pictured: Jodie O'Connor, Breastfeeding Support Worker and Rachel, Breastfeeding Volunteer from Worcestershire Infant Feeding Team.