Our Breastmates! 

Volunteers at a breastfeeding charity in Swindon recognised at special ceremony

 

Mums who give their time and expertise to help other mums get to grips with breastfeeding are being recognised for their vital work.

 

Nearly 20 Breastmate volunteers received certificates and were thanked at a special ceremony held at Swindon Borough Council’s Civic Offices, in Euclid Street, today (Wednesday, 11 March).

 

Mums breastfeeding in Swindon increased from 40.5% to 51.5% in 2011/12

 

Since it was set up eight years ago the Breastmate support group has gone from strength to strength with many mums delighted with the advise offered.

 

 

First-time mum Dawn Chan, aged 33, from Nythe, called on the group to help with her baby daughter Olivia, now six months old.

 

“I was completely lost at the time and felt so low because I didn’t have the confidence to breastfeed, even though I really wanted to do it and give my daughter the best.

 

"The group was my saviour – I had individual help from an expert breastfeeding counsellor and also peer support from other mums going through exactly the same thing.

 

It’s a fantastic resource and I’m really pleased Breastmates’ efforts are being acknowledged and celebrated.”

 

Expectant mums who want more information and advice about breastfeeding can attend the Breastmates meetings and free antenatal workshops, run by midwives.

 

Further details can be found on the Swindon Breastmates website below.