Winchester breastfeeding welcome scheme
The first 10 local businesses have signed up to a new project which has been launched in Winchester, making it easier for mums to breastfeed their babies when they are out and about.
The Winchester Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme is a Winchester City Council project, funded by a grant from Hampshire County Council's Public Health Fund.
Businesses who sign up to the scheme will comply with a breastfeeding-friendly policy set by Winchester City Council that will ensure mums feel confident that they can breastfeed their baby in a comfortable and safe environment with no fear of discrimination.
Those that have signed up will display a Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme window sticker.
There are known health benefits of breastfeeding - lower risk of breastfed babies becoming obese and developing diabetes later in life, less chance of getting ear, chest and tummy infections, so less likely to be hospitalised, lower risk of mums developing certain cancers.
Cllr Jan Warwick, the City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment, Health & Well-Being, said:
It is essential that young mums experience a positive and friendly atmosphere for breastfeeding.
I am delighted that these Winchester businesses are leading the way in making breastfeeding welcome in our city and I look forward to many more joining them during the campaign.
The Equality Act 2010 has specified that it is unlawful to discriminate against a mother who is breastfeeding.
Businesses that join can enjoy publicity through the scheme – information will be accessible via the Winchester City Council website and at local breastfeeding drop-ins and antenatal classes (the local breastfeeding drop-in, BABIES, sees over 200 different mothers every year).
The first 10 businesses to join up are: Beales, Bridge Patisserie, Caffe Nero, Chococo, River Cottage Canteen, Debenhams, Eighteen 71, Rick Stein, Subway, and the YMCA Café.
For further information about the scheme email winchesterbreastfeedingwelcome@hampshirebess.org.uk