Mums in Cumbria are set to benefit from more breastfeeding support.
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust has appointed two new infant feeding leads, Andrea Harriman and Bernice Radcliffe.
The specialist midwives will provide feeding support and information for new mums and families.
Bernice said:“We know that Cumbria has lower rates than average for breastfeeding, which is where Andrea and I hope to be able to make a difference. We know that the right support from the start is vital.”
Andrea said: “We’re really keen to support mums and families to help each and every baby get off to the best and healthiest start in life.”
Bernice and Andrea work with the wider maternity teams to offer specialist feeding support to women from birth to postnatal care in the hospital and community up to 28 days.
The two also work closely with the health visiting Infant feeding team who would then offer further ongoing support.
Andrea added: “Having support with feeding and being able to meet other people to discuss their experiences and share ideas, is a vital component of feeding success. Cumbria has a range of peer support groups, all over the county to offer this ongoing service.”
Since starting in their new roles, the infant feeding duo have been prioritising refresher training for midwives and have also set their sights on becoming Baby Friendly: Stage 3 accredited in due course, which will ensure that breastfeeding is embedded in all aspects of maternity care.
Andrea and Bernice, alongside 15 other infant feeding midwives, health visitors and children’s nurses, are also completing a course to become International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, the highest level of accreditation for breastfeeding support.
Bernice added: “Excitingly we have antenatal infant feeding specific virtual classes starting in the very near future and warmly welcome all to attend. More details will be shared soon.”
