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More than 200 businesses across the area have now signed up to the North Somerset Breastfeeding Welcome scheme.
Run by North Somerset Council, the scheme highlights venues where women can comfortably breastfeed. Businesses display a Breastfeeding Welcome sticker or poster in their windows, make sure their staff are aware and are extra supportive of breastfeeding.
Parents can find an interactive map and list of Breastfeeding Welcome venues on the Better Health North Somerset website, where businesses can also sign up to take part in the scheme.
The Breastfeeding North Somerset team also have an Instagram account which they use to regularly post updates about welcome venues, groups and events.
Matt Lenny, North Somerset Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mum and baby. We know from our data that nearly 80 per cent of new mums in North Somerset start off breastfeeding but many find it more difficult when they’re out and about, away from home, shopping or visiting cafés and restaurants.
“Of course, you can breastfeed your baby wherever you’d like to! Mums should never be made to feel uncomfortable about breastfeeding in public. Our Breastfeeding Welcome scheme gives an extra layer of reassurance knowing that the venue you’re visiting is signed up to the scheme and fully supportive of breastfeeding in all public areas of their business.
“We’re very lucky in North Somerset as there are lots of ways to access infant feeding support if you need it. We have weekly groups, Facebook support groups and you can also ask your health professional for support.”
Gagandeep Gill (pictured) is a Kitchen Operation Manager for Lounges. The company has three café bars in North Somerset, all of which are part of the Breastfeeding welcome scheme.
Gagandeep explained how important it is for them to support breastfeeding: “The scheme is a great way for Brunello, Teatro and Impero Lounges to support the community which is a big focus for every one of our businesses. We love supporting local families and having the sticker displayed in the window lets parents know they are welcome to breastfeed in our Lounges.”
For more information about breastfeeding support and advice available in North Somerset, follow @breastfeedingns on Instagram or visit www.betterhealthns.co.uk/support/breastfeeding-welcome.
Venues and businesses that would like to join the scheme can find out more and sign up at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/breastfeedingwelcomesignup.