Eleven mothers have become the latest recruits to join the the Western Health Trust’s Breastfeeding Support Network.
The mums successfully qualified in the Public Health Agency’s Open College Network Certificate in Breastfeeding Peer Support.
Maureen Miller, Western Trust lead midwife, congratulated the ladies on completing the eight week study course delivered by the Western Trust Breastfeeding Training Team at Edenballymore SureStart in the Brandywell area of Derry.
Maureen said: “The Western Trust appreciates the valuable work breastfeeding peer support volunteers do with supporting new mothers as they start their breastfeeding journey.
“Peer volunteers work within the Altnagelvin maternity and neonatal unit, our local breastfeeding groups and many help maintain a telephone support line that mothers can use any time before and after their baby is born.”
Audrey Moore, Western Trust breastfeeding co-ordinator, said having more volunteers to spread their knowledge and experiences was a “valuable asset.”
She added: “Many initiatives have been undertaken in the West to promote breastfeeding and research shows that ‘mum to mum’ support is hugely beneficial in helping mums breastfeed exclusively and breastfeed for longer.”
If you are interested in becoming a breastfeeding peer support volunteer and would like further information please contact Audrey Moore, breastfeeding co-ordinator, Altnagelvin Hospital, telephone (028) 71345171, extension 214839.
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