Gloucester Care Home Champions Breastfeeding Support During World Breastfeeding Awareness Week
In support of World Breastfeeding Awareness Week, a Gloucester care home has made a commitment to supporting new mothers and families, while also exploring the emotional bonds of motherhood through reminiscence therapy with female residents.
To mark the awareness week, which ran from 1st to 7th August, Park View joined the Breastfeeding Network, an independent support service, to become a ‘Breastfeeding Friendly’ establishment – offering a safe and welcoming environment for visitors and the wider community.
The initiative provided staff with training on the legal protections for public breastfeeding and the importance of supporting maternal wellbeing. The home has also displayed recognisable posters and window stickers throughout the care home.
Additionally, Park View hosted a relaxed coffee morning on Thursday, 7th August. The event was open to people currently breastfeeding, as well as those who have in the past, or are soon to be, offering the chance to share experiences and ask questions.
The event also highlighted the emotional power of intergenerational connection, with many residents reflecting fondly on their own experiences of motherhood and family life.
Judy Cera, a former Breastfeeding Advisor at Breastfeeding Network, who attended the event, said:
“It was lovely to see the residents holding the babies. You could see from the smiles on their faces that the experience was taking them back to their days as young parents. Getting different generations to interact together is something that benefits old and young.”
Luke Jukes, Wellbeing Manager from Park View, said:
“We’re proud to be supporting women at every stage of life; the residents we care for every day, and now, new mothers and families in our community too. Taking part in World Breastfeeding Awareness Week has encouraged us to reflect on the many ways women give and receive care throughout their lives.
While working with the Breastfeeding Network has been an opportunity to listen, learn and explore how we can offer more meaningful support. For our team, it’s as much about education as it is about connections and community. After all, ‘it takes a village…’”
World Breastfeeding Awareness Week highlights the health benefits of breastfeeding for both babies and mothers, while also advocating for the spaces for women to breastfeed safely, confidently and without stigma.
Breastfeeding Network’s mission is to raise awareness of both the benefits and barriers to breastfeeding. Its scheme gives organisations the opportunity to show their support for local mothers by improving visibility, accessibility and understanding around breastfeeding in public spaces.
