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Efforts to encourage more women to breastfeed - and to enable them to feel comfortable breastfeeding wherever they are - are being extended.
The Health Improvement Commission is working with the States to extend the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme that was launched in 2018.
As well as encouraging breastfeeding, the scheme aims to make it easier to recognise places where breastfeeding mothers and babies are welcome.
Businesses like Crepe Maison and Renoir Tea Garden are already involved.
“As a mother and a business owner, I am deeply committed to supporting breastfeeding in our community," said Managing Director Natalia Silvester.
"At Crepe Maison and Renoir Tea Garden, we believe that every mother should feel comfortable and welcome to breastfeed her baby wherever she chooses.
"Breastfeeding is a natural and important part of life, and we are proud to be part of a scheme that promotes this essential practice. By joining the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme, we hope to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all families.”
Pictured: The World Health Organisation supports breastfeeding as the "ideal" way to feed babies.
By extending the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme, the Health Improvement Commission have been talking to more cafes and restaurants to widen the number of establishments also doing this.
Caroline Hoar, Specialist Nurse at the Health Improvement Commission said by extending the scheme, they hope that it will help further normalise breastfeeding in the community, and help support those who may feel uncomfortable or unsure breastfeeding in public.
“As a specialist nurse, I am proud to support the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme," she said. "This initiative not only promotes the health and wellbeing of both mothers and infants but also fosters a community where breastfeeding is respected and encouraged.
"By creating welcoming environments, we empower mothers to provide the best start for their children, knowing they have the support and understanding of their community.”
The Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme is part of the wider Healthier Weight Strategy, reflecting one of the many benefits associated with breastfeeding.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises breastfeeding as 'the optimal way to provide an infant with the nutrients they require for healthy growth and development and has health benefits for both mothers and babies'.
Individuals who breastfeed are proven to have a reduced risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers and lower rates of Osteoporosis, says the WHO while breastfed babies are also less likely to suffer from childhood infections or to develop childhood diabetes and obesity.
Statistics collated by Public Health reflect other data used by the WHO in showing that many women who start breastfeeding their new baby do not breastfeed for as long as they would like.
Alex Hawkins-Drew, Associate Director of Public Health, said there are a variety of reasons but only too often this is due to a feeling that there is a lack of support, particularly when feeding their baby outside the home.
“We are pleased to be working in partnership with the Health Improvement Commission on the extension of the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme across States of Guernsey public premises and to local businesses across the Bailiwick," she said.
"Breastfeeding is an important Public Health priority as it promotes health, prevents disease, and helps contribute to reducing health inequalities. It is important that families within our community know that they are supported to breastfeed when out in public.”
Pictured: Businesses which welcome breastfeeding are encouraged to display a sticker saying so.
Local businesses such as cafes, restaurants, shops and supermarkets are eligible to sign up to become Breastfeeding Welcome member venues.
By signing up to the scheme, businesses and organisations can show that they are committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for breastfeeding families by displaying an easily recognisable sticker and sharing information with their staff about how to support the needs of breastfeeding customers.
If your business is interested in joining the scheme, please email hello@healthimprovement.gg for more information and a member of our team will be in touch.
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