Since 1992, the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) co-ordinates the World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) – a global campaign that aims to inform, anchor, engage and galvanise action on breastfeeding and related issues.
For 2023, the WBW is the first week of August, centred around the theme ’enabling breastfeeding: making a difference for working parents”.
Melton council is fully accredited as a Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA).
Melton council maternal and child health team leader Libby Singleton has 18 years’ experience as a maternal child health nurse, and said she loves empowering parents with the skills they need to see their families thrive.
“Everyone’s parenting journey is beautiful and different, and every new one I can be a part of is a joy,” she said.
“Breastfeeding takes time to learn. Support from a midwife, maternal and child health nurse or lactation consultant in the first few weeks is important to establish this new skill.
“If you see a mum breastfeed her baby in public, smile and never judge. Breastfeeding should be celebrated, not shamed.”
Johanna O’Keeffe is an international board certified lactation consultant and registered midwife with 30 years’ experience.
‘“Breastfeeding is instinctive for babies but a learnt skill for mums. It can take time, sometimes weeks, to become confident breastfeeding,” she said.
“All parents need support to be able to just be with their baby. They need to feel safe with time and love, not get unsolicited advice or criticism.”
If you need support achieving your breastfeeding goals, call Melton maternal and child health service’s breastfeeding support service.
Details: 9747 5462.
