Goody2Shoes is the latest local business to sign up its shops in Ayr, Kilwinning and
Largs to NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s public breastfeeding initiative, Breastfeed happily
here.
Breastfeed happily here is a way of making sure that employees in local businesses
are aware of The Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005, which means that it is
illegal to stop a mother feeding her baby breast or formula milk in premises where
the public has general access.
Venues display the Breastfeed happily here sticker to let all customers know that
breastfeeding in public is protected by law and that they openly support and
encourage mothers to feed their babies.
Pauline Cassidy, Manager of Goody2Shoes – Ayr, Kilwinning and Largs said: “I was
surprised to learn that many people are not aware of the law - even mums.
“We are happy to help get the message out there to our staff and customers that it’s
perfectly normal for women to breastfeed in public and in our shop.”
Ruth Campbell, Consultant Dietitian in Public Health Nutrition, explains: “We want all
mothers in Ayrshire and Arran to make their choice about breastfeeding feeling fully
informed and supported not only by us, but by their peers and local community.
“Mums want to be out and about with their new babies, who may need fed every few
hours. There should be no barriers to them feeling able to do that.
“We have more proven information about the benefits of breastfeeding than we ever
had before. We know that breast milk helps protect babies from things like ear and
chest infections, as well as tummy upsets like diarrhoea and vomiting. Long term, it
means children have a lower risk of diabetes, eczema and obesity later in life.”
If you would like to find out which venues have signed up to the Breastfeed happily
here campaign, or you are a business owner who would like to display a sticker,
please email ayrshire@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.
The ‘Breastfeed happily here Ayrshire’ Facebook page has the latest news of venues
that have signed up, as well as pictures, stories and videos from breastfeeding
mums around Ayrshire.
If you are a mother looking for breastfeeding advice and support, speak to your
midwife or health visitor. You can also visit https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk
or call National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212. The Breastfeeding
Network also runs free groups every day across Ayrshire where you can receive
support and information.
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