Event backs mums who breastfeed

A GROUP group of NHS-trained volunteers will hold a special open day in support of breastfeeding mothers in Oban.

Bumps, Babies and Beyond, which met previously at the Go Bananas play space, now meets every Monday from 10am until noon at the former Happy House Nursery at the Baptist Church Hall in Albany Street.

On Monday June 20, they will welcome all to a picnic at their new location to mark breastfeeding celebration week and spread the word about the support they provide.

Although breastfeeding rates are growing in the UK, they are still among the lowest in the world, with only one per cent of mothers maintaining exclusive breastfeeding to six months, as recommended by the UK health departments and the World Health Organisaton and UNICEF.

The volunteers are all mothers who have breastfed their own babies and gone through NHS training to help others in practical aspects of infant feeding. The Oban group is open to all mothers and fathers, and parents-to-be, however they choose to feed their babies.

Volunteers have plans for other special events for new parents and parents-to-be throughout the summer and autumn, including baby massage, first aid, baby-wearing and maternity clothes exchanges.

For further details contact tracythornton2@nhs.net.