21/12/2009

Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones, helped Gwynedd and Anglesey Local Public Health Team and partner organisations launch their new Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme booklet.
The booklet provides mothers with a network of venues where they can confidently breastfeed their babies.

A survey in North Wales revealed that new mothers felt daunted about breastfeeding their babies whilst out and about in their local community as they were unsure where they would be welcomed.

This new booklet lists supportive premises whose staff are aware of the scheme, and where mothers can feed their babies without the fear of embarrassment or being asked to stop.

Ieuan Wyn Jones, whose wife is a former Health Visitor, spoke of his support for improving breastfeeding rates and giving babies the best nutritional start in life.

Health Challenge Anglesey, Health Challenge Gwynedd, NPHS staff and the midwives and health visitors across both counties all worked together to recruit the cafes, restaurants, pharmacies, leisure centres and other premises to join the Welsh Assembly Government funded scheme.

The list of premises is available on-line and updated regularly. There will also be links to tourism websites so that visitors can benefit from the family friendly approach.