MIDWIVES across Worcestershire are appealing for volunteers to help support women who are breastfeeding.
Potential volunteers are invited to a meet-and-greet at the Charles Hastings Education Centre at Worcestershire Royal Hospital on October 6.
Supporting pregnant women and new mothers, the volunteer role will involve 15 to 20 hours of free training with specialist midwives, upon clearance of the standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.
Breastfeeding, where possible, can be the best option for new mums and their babies, with research showing it can reduce the risk of childhood infections, sudden infant death, obesity, diabetes and breast cancer.
In Worcestershire, 73 per cent of mothers start breastfeeding straight away, slightly below the national average of 80 per cent and after the first six weeks, this drops to 44 per cent.
Infant feeding lead Becky Davenport said: “Getting breastfeeding off to a good start can be difficult.
By starting this network of trained volunteers, we will be able to offer new mums the help they need, when they need it.
“The volunteer programme is a great opportunity to work with NHS professionals, expand your knowledge and learn a lifelong skill, at the same time as contributing to your local community.
“There’s no experience necessary, but an interest in breastfeeding is essential. This will be the third year we have run this opportunity and many of our previous volunteers have gone on to do midwifery training.”
The meet-and-greet will be from 9.30am to 10.30am on Thursday, October 6, in the Charles Hastings Education Centre at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
Please contact Caroline Payne on 07879440264 or Becky Davenport on 07767440971.
