EXTRA funding for two initiatives designed to support families to mark World Breastfeeding Week.
As part of the week, which started on Saturday and runs until Friday Family Nursing & Home Care has announced two new grants it has received which, it is hoped, will remove financial barriers for families and help mothers across the Island continue breastfeeding for longer if they choose to do so.
A free Breast Pump Loan Service, funded by the Jersey Community Foundation, will offer hospital-grade breast pumps and single-use pump kits free of charge to mothers who require additional support, including those experiencing premature births, feeding difficulties, or delayed milk supply.
Ten pumps have been funded by the grant, which will benefit up to 160 mothers.
Meanwhile, a new maternity recliner chair, funded by the Coop Community Fund, will improve the Pathways clinic by offering mothers a comfortable space to exercise a range of feeding positions, alongside enhancing access to infant feeding services in the east of Jersey.
Debra Hennessy, international board-certified lactation consultant and baby friendly initiative lead at Family Nursing & Home Care, said: “We are incredibly grateful to both the Jersey Community Foundation and the Coop Community Fund for helping us improve and expand our services.
“Breastfeeding can be challenging, particularly in the early weeks, and practical support can make a huge difference. These grants will help remove barriers for families, improve access to specialist support and equipment, and ultimately help more mothers achieve their feeding goals.”
