Healthy Steps’ supports breastfeeding in the local community

‘Healthy Steps for Life’ is a new three-year programme developed by the Southern Investing for Health Partnership (SIHP) to promote healthy lifestyles in early years (0-5 years). Part of this programme is to support breastfeeding in local communities.

Twelve participants from the Craigavon and Banbridge area have recently completed a new Breastfeeding Peer Support training programme developed by the ‘Healthy Steps for Life’programme. These volunteers are now trained as community-based peer supporters who will provide help and advice to breastfeeding mums in their local area.

Breastfeeding peer support is mother-to-mother support given by women who have breastfed their own children and who, with specialised training, support other women wishing to breastfeed in a supportive environment. This voluntary service is intended to support and complement the work of current services provided by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT).

Orlaith Moley, Project Manager with the Public Health Agency explains: “Breastfeeding research has highlighted the importance of new mums having access to good support and information in the early stages after birth to help build their confidence and overcome any problems they may have. This comprehensive package of training will provide the peer supporters with the knowledge and skills necessary to help mothers’ breastfeed successfully as well as giving them the confidence to promote breastfeeding in their own community.”

Lorraine Carson from Banbridge who has successfully completed her training commented: “If there had been someone in the role that I have just trained for to offer me help, advice and support when my baby was born my breastfeeding experience would have been a lot less stressful, especially in the first few weeks.”

Royanne Richardson from Portadown who has also recently completed her training said: “Early breastfeeding days can be very difficult, I may not have made it past the first three days had it not been for the support I received from other breastfeeding mothers. This new service should mean that no new breastfeeding mother should have to suffer the early days alone.

“The Peer Supporters have all experienced breastfeeding problems, but have also experienced the benefits, convenience and joy that comes from successful breastfeeding and are keen to help others.”

Orlaith added: “On completion of training the peer supporters will be put in touch with mothers who are experiencing difficulties in breastfeeding. Advice and support will be offered over the phone or by home visits from the peer supporters. Throughout the programme the peer supporters will receive regular mentoring and support from Community Midwives from the SHSCT.