GP practices in North East Lincolnshire have shown their support for breastfeeding by becoming part of the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme.
Four local GP practices have joined the scheme – Fieldhouse and Woodford Medical Centres based at the Freshney Green Primary care centre and Dr Biswas’ surgery and Dr Zaro’s surgery in Cleethorpes.
The Breastfeeding Welcome scheme is an initiative which aims to help mothers recognise places where they are welcome to breastfeed their babies when they are out and about in North East Lincolnshire.
Isobel Duckworth, locum consultant in public health, said: “I am delighted to be able to present the certificates to the practices as part of the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme. It is great that the practices have committed themselves to support women and their families when they are attending or visiting the GP practices.”
Kathy Holmes, infant feeding coordinator at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “There is evidence to show that a lot of mothers would like to breastfeed for longer and often give up before they really want to so it is important that they know they are fully supported.
“We are very pleased that these practices have agreed to join the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme and we hope that other practices will also consider becoming a part of it.
“We have been delighted by the positive response of a wide range of businesses and organisations and the support they have shown for the scheme. By being a part of the scheme they will be contributing towards ensuring a healthy start in life for the children living in and visiting North East Lincolnshire.”
The scheme was developed in partnership with local Breastfeeding Peer supporters, North East Lincolnshire Council, the CTP and Northern Lincolnshire and Goole Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Establishments are invited to complete a checklist, agree to certain criteria supporting mothers to breastfeed should they want to while visiting their premises. Establishments are then awarded a sticker and certificate to display showing that they are “Breastfeeding Welcome” and will provide a welcoming and supportive environment to mothers and their families
The health benefits of breastfeeding have been proven to have long lasting effects on a child's development and growth. The milk that a baby receives from breastfeeding is more than just a food. It contains antibodies and all the nutrients needed to help protect a baby against the risk of infection and disease. It is easily absorbed and adapts to promote babies growth and development. That is why the Department of Health recommends breast milk (exclusively) as the best source of nutrition for at least the first six months.
The directories are available from local children's centres or on discharge from the maternity unit or from health visitors. To find out about where children's centres are located, ring the Family Information Service on Freephone number 0800 18 303 17.
