Derry mothers host event to support breastfeeding and raise awareness

by Marianne Flood

Local breastfeeding mothers took part in special event this week to mark Breastfeeding Awareness Week.

The information morning, organised by Sure Start Edenballymore, gave expectant mothers the chance to see babies being breastfed and talk through any questions or concerns they may have.

Event organiser Margaret Fisher, who is a midwife at Sure Start, said the message behind this year’s Breastfeeding Awareness Week is ‘yes you can support breastfeeding’.

“The event had a great turn out and was geared at showing mums who are thinking about breastfeeding what support is available,” said Mrs Fisher.

“It focused on how breastfeeding enables boding and attachment to their babies and the baby’s brain development.

“Breastfeeding Awareness Week comes just after Infant Mental Health Week and the two go hand in hand in many ways.”

During the event the breast feeding mothers were able to share their experiences of breastfeeding and how they overcame any difficulties.

Figures released by the Northern Ireland Assembly earlier this year revealed the Western Health and Social Care Trust has the smallest proportion of breastfed infants in Northern Ireland upon discharge from hospital, at 39 per cent.

Claire Hamilton, Western Trust Health Improvement Department stated: “Breastfeeding makes a difference right from the first feed.

“With only seven per cent of babies in Northern Ireland still breastfeeding at six months it is vital that we support and encourage mums to breastfeed.

“If a mother feels supported by her partner and families and by the wider community we hope that she will continue to breastfeed for longer. By supporting breastfeeding, we are making breastfeeding more acceptable within the community.”

Sure Start Edenballymore is open to families in Creggan, Bogside, The Fountain, Strand Road and Glenowen and supports expectant mums and children from birth to age four.

Sure Start will send a Family Support Officer to your home for an antenatal and postnatal visit and aims to help families give children the best start in life.

The group run a Breastfeeding Support Group from 10am to 12pm every Thursday at the Healthy Living Centre in Creggan.

Sure Start Edenballymore also host a ‘Baby Matters Group’ every Monday morning for breast and bottle feeders.

For more information ring Sure Start Edenballymore on 71371670.