Breastfeeding Peer Support
“1 in 3 mothers who breastfeed don’t get to six weeks , almost all wanted to continue’’.
Extract from the Infant Feeding Survey 2005.
In 2010 Home-Start Wirral undertook a new project funded by Wirral PCT. We were chosen to deliver a breastfeeding peer support service to families living on the Wirral.
Through the excellent recruitment, training, support and supervision that both Home-Start and the Breastfeeding Network provide, we aim to increase breastfeeding prevalence and improve the health of families living in this area.
Are you pregnant?
Thinking about breastfeeding? Want more information about choosing to feed your baby? Want to discuss your past experiences, expectations or worries about breastfeeding?
The only criteria for our services is that you live on the Wirral.
When the baby arrives
We offer support at hospital in the very early days. Our support is offered by a friendly mum who has experience, training and time to spend with you 'getting started' before you and baby go home. We are here to go through anything you aren't sure about breastfeeding before you leave hospital and offer you ongoing support. Support is offered when and where YOU need it, for as long as you want to breastfeed.
Breastfeeding support at home
This service can be just a phone call away, for 'getting started' and support with other things around breastfeeding. Support and information from bump to breastfeeding and through introducing complimentary foods and weaning, we are here. For however long you choose to feed we are here to support your choice.
Some women can struggle getting started, but with a little support and access to up to date information, mums who choose to breastfeed can do so for as long as they wish.
Can I volunteer?
Are you a mother, who has breastfed for at least three months and have time to offer? You will need to complete a 12 week Course of Preparation, which includes 6 weeks specialist Breastfeeding Network training, plus the hospital induction and UNICEF training and complete a CRB check. This course is also Open College Network accredited.
- As a Home-Start Breastfeeding volunteer you must be able to offer your time each week
- You must be able to commit to at least one year of your time to volunteering for Home-Start Wirral
- You must be able to support families in a friendly non-judgemental way
- You must be able to maintain partnership working within both hospital and community settings.
As a volunteer, what will I actually do?
You will be offering information and support around breastfeeding during pregnancy and once the baby arrives. This will be client centred support on the hospital wards, in the home and on the telephone. We will be promoting a welcoming atmosphere in the community, working alongside midwives, health visitors and other health professionals as part of Wirral's Maternity Services.
Resources
Below are some of the Leaflets and information that we use available to download:
A life-saver. I was ready to give up, almost in tears, when two ladies from Home-Start walked in and turned my views around. I would not be breastfeeding now if it was not for Home-Start. Good job Home-Start, you are amazing.
Breastfeeding mum
Excellent. Really helpful for me because I had been receiving conflicting advice from other sources and it helped to clarify in my mind what should be happening. Someone came to see me straight away... fantastic. It is also good to know someone was at the end of the phone if needed. Thanks again, your help has been invaluable.
Breastfeeding mum