Knit, natter and lots of yarn… Ballywalter Seniors Club knits 200 breasts to support new mums

The Ballywalter Seniors Club’s Knit and Natter group, along with Millisle Health and Wellbeing group, has completed an extraordinary project, knitting 200 breast models to support midwifery education at Queen’s University Belfast.

The handcrafted teaching aids will be used by student midwives to learn essential skills such as positioning and attachment for breastfeeding, helping future healthcare professionals provide better support to new mothers on their breastfeeding journey. 

The group meets every other week at Ballywalter Village Hall, offering a welcoming space for people to share skills and friendship. Each knitted breast serves as a practical, reusable tool for demonstrating techniques that are vital for successful breastfeeding.

The initiative is supported by the Public Health Agency (PHA) and is a great example of how strong communities can help create better health and wellbeing outcomes for the people who live in them, as well as having a wider positive impact on society. 

Catherine Magennis, Nurse Consultant at the PHA and Lead for Breastfeeding and Family Nurse Partnership, praised the group’s efforts: “This is a fantastic example of how local communities can make a real difference. 

“These knitted models will be invaluable for teaching midwifery students about positioning and attachment, which are key to successful breastfeeding. We are so grateful to the Ballywalter Knit and Natter and Millisle Health and Wellbeing groups for their dedication and generosity.” 

For more information on breastfeeding support, visit www.breastfedbabies.org