97k boost to breastfeeding

MUMS and tots in the city are set to benefit from breastfeeding support thanks to a 97,000 grant. The extra funding is set to benefit hundreds of mums across the city by providing specialist training for staff. Healthcare professionals provide key breastfeeding support and advice to mums throughout pregnancy right up to the first few months of motherhood.

The grant which was secured through a joint bid from NHS Leicester City, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester City Council and Leicester City Community Health Services will be used to encourage more women in the city to breastfeed.

It will fund more pre and post birth support for women who choose to breastfeed as well as schemes like breastfeeding cafes which encourage women to breastfeed for longer.

Cath Pritchard, consultant in public health for NHS Leicester City, said: “It’s fantastic that health services in Leicester have been awarded such a generous sum of money. Breastfeeding support from health professionals is important, particularly for first time mothers. This money ensures we can continue to provide the highest quality of care.

“There are not only long-term benefits for the child but breastfeeding has many benefits for the mother. It can strengthen bones, lower the risk of developing ovarian and breast cancer and is even proven to help mums get their pre-pregnancy figure back.”

Julia Austin a consultant midwife at Leicester’s Hospitals, said: “We are delighted with the funding. It means our midwives and support staff will be given more practical training and taught extra skills to give every mum the help she needs to breastfeed her new baby.”

Cllr Vi Dempster, Cabinet member for children’s services said: “Leicester City Council is really pleased that the funding is coming to the city. It means that children’s centres will be able to work with NHS Leicester City to further develop the volunteer breastfeeding support programme, where volunteers are trained to give support to other mothers. We know this has increased the number of women choosing to breastfeed for longer.”
Breastfeeding support groups across Leicester:

1. Highfields Childrens’ Centre: Tuesday 9.30am to 11am contact Humaira on 0116 2488100
2. Beaumont Leys Children’s Centre: Wednesday 11am to 1pm
3. Bewcastle Grove Children’s Centre: Thursday 10am to 12pm contact Jasmine on 0116 2211199
4. St Matthews Children’s Centre: Tuesday 9am to 12pm contact Felicity on 0116 2426370
5. Braunstone Children’s Centre: Thursday 12.30pm to 2pm contact Steph on 0116 2550525
6. West End Children’s Centre: Tuesday 1pm to 2.30pm contact Katie on 0116 2252225
7. Woodbridge Children’s Centre: Wednesday 9.30am to 11.30am contact Tina 0116 2211760
8. New Parks Children’s Centre: Thursday 1.15pm to 2.45 pm contact Laura 0116 2293257
9. Rowlatts Hill Children’s Centre: Wednesday 9.30am to11.30am contact Sarah or Vikki on 0116 292450010. CafMAMA in Unitarian Church Hall on East Bond Street near Highcross shopping centre every Wednesday 10am to 12pm contact Sally 0116 2418941 to 12pm

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