Published: 5 January 2023 at 12:00
New group at ARU provides information, friendship and assistance for new parents
A new group to provide free expert support and assistance to breastfeeding parents in Cambridge has been formed by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).
Led by lactation consultants, the Breastfeeding Support Hub is being held every Tuesday at The Eatery within ARU’s East Road campus.
New parents can find out more about breastfeeding from expert academics, International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants, and Health Visitor and School Nurse students. The group also provides an opportunity to meet new people in a supportive environment while enjoying breakfast and a warm drink.
The UK has among the lowest rates of breastfeeding in the world, with eight out of 10 mothers stopping breastfeeding before they would like to. While research has shown that breastfeeding can have a positive effect on child health, barriers to breastfeeding among new mothers include pain, stigma, return to the workplace and a lack of support.
Dr Amanda Wagg, Deputy Head of School for Midwifery and Community Nursing at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said:
“We know that many women in the UK want to breastfeed their babies but face several barriers to doing so. There is a need for information and support, and we know that an encouraging environment can really make a difference.
“The Breastfeeding Support Hub provides a friendly, warm environment where new mums and dads can find out more about breastfeeding, have something to eat and chat to some real experts in the field, as well as meet other parents who might be in a similar situation.”