New mums and expectant mums in Bridgwater are being encouraged to go along to local NHS breastfeeding groups by NHS Somerset Infant Feeding Specialists for help and advice on how to feed their baby the natural way and to learn how breast feeding can be such a positive experience.

The NHS staff from Somerset Community Health who work on the infant breastfeeding team are working together to achieve the UNICEF Baby Friendly Award which accredits maternity and community facilities that adopt internationally recognised standards of best practice in the care of mothers and babies.

Bridgwater ladies who want to meet other new mums and receive help and support can turn up at one of the breast feeding groups at any time for refreshments, a slice of cake and a chat. Mums with older children are also very welcome.

There are three groups a week in Bridgwater and a professional breastfeeding counsellor will be available at each group.

Antonia Dunn, Breastfeeding Peer Supporter for Bridgwater said: “There are a lot of benefits to breastfeeding.

"Not only is it a lovely way for you to be close to your baby, your milk will also protect your child and help them fight against infections as it contains antibodies to help the immune system.

"Breast milk can also reduce the risk of your child getting allergic conditions such as eczema and asthma, and breastfeeding can also reduce your own risk of certain cancers and osteoporosis in later life.

“There are a number of breastfeeding groups taking place on a weekly basis throughout Somerset including Bridgwater.

"I have seen firsthand the benefits of breastfeeding my own children and I have faced some of the challenges.

"My youngest child had severe reflux and colic which meant that I needed help along the way.

"I was inspired to become a ‘peer supporter’, which means that I have been trained to guide Mums through breastfeeding, after being helped by a close friend who provided me with much needed information and advice.

"I firmly believe in the benefits of breastfeeding and love sharing my knowledge to help others.

“I am at the Hamp Children’s Centre group every Wednesday and my fellow peer supporters often help out at the other groups.

"There is also a Health Visitor, Midwife, Community Nurse or a National Childbirth Trust breastfeeding counsellor available at each group.”

Bridgwater Breast Feeding Groups and Schedule:

Eastover Children’s Centre NCT: Mondays, 11.30am – 1.00pm (01278 428027)

Victoria Park Children’s Centre: Tuesdays, 12.00 – 1.30pm (01278 440602)

Hamp Children’s Centre: Wednesdays, 10.30am – 12.00 noon (01278 429273)

Ten Top Tips: 1. Breast milk is all that your baby needs until he/she is six months old.

2. Your breast milk is made especially for your baby

3. The more you breastfeed, the more milk you make

4. Your baby knows when they need a feed

5. Feed your baby before they cry whenever possible

6. Feeding your baby discreetly should be acceptable anywhere

7. Joining a breastfeeding group will help you make new friends

8. Your baby’s feed times will vary

9. You don’t need to buy extra equipment to breastfeed.

10. If breastfeeding hurts get help as soon as possible.