World Breast Feeding Week

Mums and babies from across the East Riding were invited to take part in events to highlight the benefits of breastfeeding.

Events were held at a number of locations across the East Riding on Friday August 2, during World Breastfeeding Week.

The events were part of the Global Big Latch On, a synchronised breastfeeding activity which also took place at venues around the world.

The World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action organises World Breastfeeding Week from 1 to 7 August each year, to raise awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding and the need for global support. It is celebrated in 120 countries.

On Friday August 2, East Riding children’s centres and Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust Integrated Specialist Public Health Nursing Service joined thousands of breastfeeding mothers, babies and children across the world to gather in their communities to take part in the Global Big Latch On.  Events were held at Beverley Library Gardens in Champney Road, Beverley;  Princess Mary Promenade, South Side, Bridlington; and Withernsea Lighthouse Gardens in Withernsea.

This year the goals was to break the current Global Big Latch On record of almost 21,500 children breastfeeding at 778 locations, across 28 countries.

Councillor Julie Abraham, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s portfolio holder for children, young people and education and Baby Friendly Initiative Guardian, said she hoped that mothers would take the opportunity to take their babies and young children along to one of the events being held in the East Riding.

“The Big Latch On provides an opportunity for breastfeeding women to get together in their local communities, host their own events and identify opportunities for on-going support,” she said.

Pauline Dumble and Alison Greaves Infant Feeding Leads for the East Riding of Yorkshire said “Our vision is to make breastfeeding the norm with every child getting the best start in life and to provide a supportive environment for all parents regardless of how they decide to feed their baby. Thank you to all who attended“.

More information is available from East Riding children’s centres, or visit www.biglatchon.org.