Tuesday - advice for new mums

On Tuesday afternoon a stand will be in Priory Meadow Shopping Centre in Hastings where expectant mums can meet a breastfeeding counsellor and peer supporters to learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding for both mum and baby.

And on Thursday picnics are being held from 12 '“ 2 in three different locations across Hastings and Rother. One is at Alexandra Park, Hastings, near the bandstand, another is in Egerton Park, Bexhill, near the Family Learning Centre and finally Masonfield, opposite Tilling Green School in Rye.

"Mums-to-be and women who are either currently breastfeeding or have ever breastfed are invited to take their lunch along.

At all events, peer supporters, who are local mothers who have breastfed their own babies and have been trained to support others, will be on hand to answer any questions and provide information, together with staff from the local Children's Centres and Health Visitors.

It is hoped that the events will help to raise awareness, so more mothers in Hastings and Rother will choose to breastfeed. Breastfeeding provides the best form of nutrition for infants, and is all a baby needs for the first six months of its life. Breast milk contains antibodies to protect against infections and allergies, and it's cheap and convenient. It can also help mothers to lose the weight they gained during pregnancy.

Helen Wolstenholme, Health Promotion Co-ordinator for Children's Centres, said: "National Breastfeeding Awareness Week is a great chance to celebrate the enormous benefits of breastfeeding. It really does help protect babies and mums against a range of serious illnesses.

"We'd like to tell women and mums that as well as being so much better for them and their babies, it's convenient, hassle-free and can easily be part of your normal, everyday life.

"If anyone would like any further support or advice on breastfeeding in Hastings and Rother, please don't hesitate to come and meet us at either the Priory Meadow stall or one of the picnics or contact me on (01424) 457133 for a full list of the weekly drop-ins in our area."

More information can be found on at: www.breastfeeding.nhs.uk