There are many benefits to breastfeeding, including health benefits such as helping protect a child against chest and ear infections, asthma and eczema and even child obesity. It can make a mother feel even closer to her baby, is cost effective and can help new mums to lose weight. However, it can be difficult at first so new mums need all the support and encouragement they can get. Liverpool Bambis (Babies and Mums Breastfeeding Information and Support) has been set up to do just that; they are the new breastfeeding peer support team to women in Liverpool.
Volunteers go through a thorough training process which includes La Leche League International Peer Counsellor Programme; UNICEF Breastfeeding Management Training; enhanced Criminal Records Bureau disclosure; and Occupational Health clearance, which ensures they are able to provide a high quality service, while at the same time helping volunteers develop their own skills and enhance their development with on-going training.
The programme has been running since October 2010 and May 2011 saw the fourth group of volunteers start their training which means that 31 volunteers have all pledged to donate 4 hours a week of their own time to providing breastfeeding support to mums. Support is offered to women and families at any stage during their pregnancy and parenting, either at home, in Children’s Centres or hospital. Volunteers offer phone support, antenatal preparation, postnatal support on the hospital ward and at home and also help with the running of support groups at Children’s Centres.
For more information, telephone 0151 702 4411 or e-mail bambis@lwh.nhs.uk.