500 venues show support for breastfeeding mums
The venues have pledged to welcome breastfeeding mothers and agreed to display a pink sticker and certificate which shows that they are members of the scheme, with staff aware of the need to be supportive of mothers on the premises.
Anne McReynolds, Chief Executive of the MAC, said: “We’re delighted to become the 500th member of the Breastfeeding is Welcome Here initiative. The MAC is proud to support this fantastic scheme which we hope will make it easier for women to recognise places that welcome them as breastfeeding mothers. The MAC prides itself on being is a place for everyone and we will continue to back initiatives that help us play our part in ensuring that we live in a creative and confident society that celebrates diversity.”
A list of members of the scheme can be found on the recently redesigned PHA’s website. The site now features an interactive map so you can find your nearest Breastfeeding Welcome Here venue.
The site also has information on mother-to-mother support which is available from local breastfeeding support groups and peer support volunteers, information for partners and families who can offer support to mothers, and information highlighting what dads need to know about breastfeeding, offering practical advice and tips on how they can help their partner.
Janet Calvert, Regional Breastfeeding Lead for the PHA, said: “The Breastfeeding Welcome Here scheme was created to help show community support for breastfeeding mums and reaching the milestone of 500 members is a significant achievement.
“Breastfeeding is the best start in life. Showing increased support for breastfeeding mums is really important, as Northern Ireland has the lowest breastfeeding rates in the UK and one of the lowest rates in Europe. We know that for many mums getting started isn’t easy. Information and support is essential, both before baby is born and especially in the early days so that mums can build their confidence and stay with their decision to breastfeed.
“Creating that supportive environment helps make breast feeding more acceptable and the normal way to feed baby. It is also something that we can all play an active part in building and help mums feel more comfortable about feeding in public as we know this is something that many mums are apprehensive about.
“Breastfeeding is normal, no matter where it happens, and this is something that we want to see happen more often and are highlighting in World Breastfeeding Week.”
