Local support group for breastfeeding mums

The Southern Trust’s Breastfeeding Peer Support Service offers free help and encouragement to new mothers.

To further enhance the service, a successful training workshop was recently held to update the skills and knowledge of the Breastfeeding Peer Support Team as well as to celebrate and appreciate the valuable work of the 21 breastfeeding peer support volunteers Trust wide.

The Peer Support Volunteers are women who have breastfed their own children and who, with specialised training and mentorship from midwives, now support other women in local communities.

This service is available in the form of telephone advice and if necessary a home visit. The peer supporters will also signpost breastfeeding mothers to other health professionals for further support.

The Southern Trust invites all breastfeeding mums, babies, mums-to-be and toddlers to come along to free local groups for support or/and for information on breastfeeding.

The Banbridge group meets every second and fourth Wednesday from 11am to 12.30pm in the Iveagh Suite, Health Social Service Centre, Scarva Street (contact 02840 620070).

The Rathfriland group meets every Wednesday from 12 noon to 1pm in Rathfriland Community Centre (contact 02840630666).

“Many pregnant women and new mums may not be aware of the wealth of support and information available when making the decision about breastfeeding,” said a Trust spokesperson.

“Choosing to breastfeed will have a positive impact on the health of both mother and baby, right from the first feed.”

Pregnant women can also avail of free Infant Feeding workshops and Ante-natal education classes with the Southern Trust.

For further information on Breastfeeding Support with the Southern Trust speak with your midwife or health visitor who can put you in contact with your local Breastfeeding Peer Support Volunteer or Local Breastfeeding Support Groups.

You can view full details on the Southern Trust website www.southerntrust.hscni.net.