NHS Lanarkshire has achieved a significant milestone, with more than 670 businesses across the region now signed up to the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme.
The Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme promotes positive experiences for breastfeeding mothers while they are out in public. It ensures that mothers feel comfortable and confident to feed their babies without interruption or judgement.
This initiative is making a real difference by creating supportive, welcoming environments for breastfeeding mothers.
Susan Short, Public Health Nutritionist with NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Breastfeeding is one of the most beneficial choices a mother can make for her child’s health, and it is crucial that mothers feel supported in every environment.
“This scheme helps ensure mothers can breastfeed confidently in public, knowing they are in a space where they are welcomed and respected.
“The benefits of breastfeeding are vast—it protects babies from infections and diseases while also reducing the mother’s risk of certain cancers.
“By creating more breastfeeding-friendly spaces, we are making it easier for mothers to continue breastfeeding, which has long-term health benefits for both mother and baby.”
Among the latest organisations to commit to the scheme are Loanhead Farm in Clydesdale and Motherwell and Wishaw Citizens Advice Bureau.
Steph Plotnikoff, from Loanhead Farm, said: “We are thrilled to join the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme. At Loanhead Farm, we believe that breastfeeding is a natural part of life and should be supported without hesitation.
“By being part of this scheme, we hope to make our farm a welcoming and comfortable space for breastfeeding families, where mums feel they can relax and feed their babies whenever needed. We’re proud to contribute to the health and well-being of our community in this way.”
Kinga Kosakowska, Chief Executive Officer of Motherwell and Wishaw Citizens Advice Bureau, added: “As a community service, it’s essential that we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable and supported.
“Signing up to the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme means we are taking an active step to ensure mothers feel confident to breastfeed here.
“We know how vital breastfeeding is for a child’s health, and we’re proud to support mothers in our community as they make the best choices for their families.”
The Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme is free for businesses to join and is open to any organisation that serves the public.
By signing up, businesses commit to supporting breastfeeding mothers and ensuring their staff are aware of their responsibilities under the Breastfeeding (Scotland) Act.
For more information on how to join the, visit https://www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/services/infantfeeding/
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