National Breast-feeding awareness week

Story & Photos: Sarah Cooper

Mums and babies from around the area got together on Wednesday 13th May to mark National Breastfeeding Awareness Week, which ran from 10th - 17th May.

The event at Abbeyfield Park House was organised by Action for Children Antenatal health/breastfeeding support workers, and was attended by around a dozen mums with their babies and children. Support workers were on hand to give information and advice, and there was the chance to unwind with a hand massage and nail bar.

Clare Cooke came with 4-week old Isabelle to meet other mums. Like many mums Clare had a few hiccups with breastfeeding, but says the help she has had from her breastfeeding support worker made it possible to carry on.

New mum Louise Kemp told me she had made good use of the phone service provided to offer support and advice. "At first I wasn't sure whether I should call, but they have all been really friendly and reassuring."

All the women I spoke to said breastfeeding has been a positive experience:

"I've breastfed all my children. It makes a good relationship between the mum and her baby." Mother of five Jazia Hamad, with 5-week old Anas.

"I can't imagine anything worse than having to get up in the middle of the night to sterilize a bottle!" Steph Abiva, with daughter Sabina

"It's easy to pick up and good for bonding. It's good to get time alone with just you and your baby." Louise Kemp with son Riley

For more information on Action for Children Antenatal and Breastfeeding Peer Support Services, contact your local Children's Centre:

Burngreave: 252 5220

Fir Vale: 261 2010

Shirecliffe and Southey Green: 232 2203