Support for breastfeeding VICKY KERR from Cropston along with eight other women from Charnwood took part in the La Leche League Breastfeeding Peer Counsellor Programme aimed at providing support to mums who are breastfeeding and giving information to pregnant women about feeding their babies. The course covers the practicalities and health benefits of breastfeeding as well as using local Home Start leaders to cover issues such as confidentiality and communication skills. The classes were taught by a mixed group of Community Health Service staff and Local Authority Family Outreach workers and were co-ordinated by Joanne Talbot, a Community Nursery Nurse working in Charnwood. This same team were recently presented with the Leicestershire County & Rutland PCT Star Award for their positive influence on breastfeeding support within the wider area. Angie Bell, a Charnwood Health Visitor and one of the course administrators said: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to have facilitated in the growth of this exceptional group of women, from willing volunteers to skilled peer supporters. And I’m confident that
Pic: Vicky Kerr (left) with the Mayor of Charnwood Jill Vincent
they will offer invaluable support to new parents within Charnwood.” Vicky and the latest group of volunteers join 20 other women, including Jay Field from Birstall, who have trained over the last two years and are now out and about in Charnwood supporting mums at breast feeding cafes, hospitals and Sure Start Centres. They are also planning antenatal breastfeeding workshops and feeding related talks, starting some involvement with teen mums and much more besides. The Mayor Charnwood, Councillor Jill Vincent, a strong supporter of breastfeeding, presented the new volunteers with their certificates at a ceremony at Shelthorpe Children’s Centre in Loughborough.. Contact the Charnwood BRAS (Breastfeeding Reasssurance and Support) via their website www.charnwoodbras.co.uk or through your health visitor or midwife.
Rothley Post MAR/APR 2011 (87), page 11
Baby swim A CLASS that teaches water confidence to babies meets at Birstall swimming pool. Water Babies teach a structured programme designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water. Spokesman Chris Craven said: “Swimming from birth is excellent for babies’ development, providing a complete physical workout which in turn aids the development of the brain. Regular swimming can enhance their awareness and improve eating and sleeping patterns. With a clear emphasis on having fun, lessons are generally very sociable occasions.” For more information call Chris and Charlie on 01664 567302 or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk