PARENTS and carers across Jersey are being invited to picnics, pop-up advice sessions and community events as the Island marks World Breastfeeding Week.
The UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative Jersey Steering Group has organised the programme running from 1 to 7 August in partnership with Family Nursing and Home Care, Public Health Jersey and Maternity Services.
This year’s theme – ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works’ – focuses on protecting and improving the evidence-based support available to parents and babies.
Organisers say breastfeeding provides babies with ideal nutrition and antibodies to help protect against illness while supporting healthy growth and development. They add that it also benefits maternal health, emotional wellbeing and helps strengthen the bond between parent and baby.
“World Breastfeeding Week is an opportunity to celebrate breastfeeding, share trusted information, help normalise it in everyday life and ensure every parent feels welcomed, informed and supported without judgement,” organisers said.
The week begins with a family picnic at Coronation Park on Saturday 1 August from 11am to 2pm, featuring children’s activities and professional lactation advice.
Other events include drop-in sessions with Breastfeeding Buddies at St Paul’s Centre, Cooper’s Café at Castle Quay and Communicare St Brelade, while International Board Certified Lactation Consultants will be available in the Royal Square on Tuesday 4 August to answer questions and provide information.
An outdoor photographic exhibition, The Art of Nurture, celebrating Jersey mothers and babies, will also be on display in the Royal Square throughout the week.
All events are free to attend, with further details available from Family Nursing & Home Care.
