The Breastfeeding Network Star Buddies are holding a discussion session for grandmothers about breastfeeding on Friday 7th February from 9.30 till 12.30 at Firbank Children’s Centre in Lancaster.
The session will be an exciting opportunity for grandmothers to talk about their own experiences of breastfeeding and their experiences of being grandmother of a breastfeeding baby, to find out information about breastfeeding and to generate ideas on how grandmothers can support breastfeeding locally.
It will also be an opportunity to meet the local Star Buddies (Breastfeeding Network registered peer supporters) including grandmothers who are already involved in local breastfeeding support. The session is open to grandmothers and women expecting grandchildren, whether or not they have breastfed. Refreshments will be provided.
“We are
really excited about finding out more about grandmothers’ views on
breastfeeding,” says local volunteer coordinator and trainer, Ursula Gallie. “We know how important grandmothers are in helping their
daughters or daughters-in-law have a positive breastfeeding experience
and we want to understand more about how grandmothers see their role.”
The Breastfeeding Network trained Star Buddies are local mums who have breastfed. They provide breastfeeding support to families in Lancaster and Morecambe.
“Star Buddies support each woman to breastfeed for as long as she wants, whether that’s a day, a week, a year or more,” explains Kate Ludley, Star Buddy Coordinator. “We support women to make their own choices and to make their breastfeeding journey a really positive experience.”
Breastfeeding support is available for all on the ward at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary and, in Morecambe and Skerton, women can opt for personal community support, receiving home visits and phone support from peer supporters. This work is funded by public health.
Throughout Lancaster and Morecambe, volunteer Star Buddies offer support, on the ward and at breastfeeding groups. (Balmoral Children’s Centre Mondays 1-2.30, Lune Park Children’s Centre 10.30-12. Contact your local Children’s Centre or text Ursula Gallie on 07927483425 for more information.)
Local mum, Dawn Staig said “With all the help from the Star Buddies, I’ve managed to feed my son for fifteen months and as a thank you I’ve decided to train as a Star Buddy.”
• If you are an interested grandmother or you are expecting a grandchild,
please get in touch as soon as possible to book your free place via our
Facebook page “Grandmothers supporting breastfeeding in Lancaster and Morecambe” or by texting or calling Ursula Gallie on 07927483425.