Celebrating World Breastfeeding Week: Empowering Communities through Support and Collaboration
World Breastfeeding Week is a time of celebration, empowerment, and advocacy for promoting breastfeeding and its significance in nurturing the health and well-being of infants and mothers alike. At Community Chesterfield, we are thrilled to commemorate this momentous occasion by highlighting the wonderful collaboration and support from our valued partners. The Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire team have been longstanding guests of ours and the University of Derby, and NHS Derbyshire Community Health Services joined the monthly group earlier this year to further strengthen support, information, and advocacy locally. Together, they have been working tirelessly to provide local antenatal support, nurturing breastfeeding support groups across the county, with our input in empowering student nurses and midwives through training, placements, and enriching events. Join us in celebrating the power of community-driven efforts to promote breastfeeding and create a nurturing environment for families throughout Chesterfield and beyond.
Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire - Creating a Network of Support Groups:
Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire has been an incredible force in establishing and running support groups throughout the county. Their support groups have become nurturing spaces where mothers can connect, share experiences, and receive guidance from experienced breastfeeding volunteers. An example is the monthly support group at the University of Derby Chesterfield site, where mothers find camaraderie and encouragement in their breastfeeding journey. They also host regular groups at Staveley Healthy Living Centre, Bolsover Children’s Centre, and Eckington Children’s Centre, as well as a further 17 groups across the rest of Derbyshire. Not content with the huge area they cover, we know they are excited to be launching a new venture in Clay Cross, starting on Monday 7th August at the Hub on the first Monday of the month, and Alice View Children’s Centre on the third Monday of the month, both sessions running from 1:30 pm-2:30 pm. We wish them all the best, and it really is a joy to be a part of this support network that runs across the region.
If you want to find out more, or what is on near you then we invite you to take a look at their website and social media to see all they do at https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/project/derbyshire/
NHS Derbyshire Community Health Services - Empowering Antenatal Support at the University of Derby:
The partnership between Community Chesterfield and NHS Derbyshire Community Health Services has been instrumental in providing local antenatal support at the University of Derby. This collaboration fosters an environment where expectant parents can receive essential guidance, resources, and emotional support throughout their pregnancy journey. The dedicated healthcare professionals from NHS Derbyshire play a pivotal role in nurturing the health and well-being of both parents and babies, offering invaluable insights and care.
Empowering Student Nurses and Midwives:
At Community Chesterfield, we take immense pride in supporting and empowering student nurses and midwives. Through unique training, enriching placements, and engaging events, we equip these future healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in whatever path they explore. Our collaborative efforts ensure that these students enter their careers with a deeper understanding of the significance of issues facing our communities with a view to nurturing optimal health outcomes.
The Impact of Collaboration and Support:
The collaboration between Community Chesterfield, NHS Derbyshire Community Health Services, and Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire exemplifies the power of community-driven efforts in promoting breastfeeding and empowering families. Through our joint initiatives, we have created an inclusive and supportive environment that celebrates breastfeeding as a fundamental aspect of motherhood and infant health. We’re very grateful that our partnership with the University of Derby has allowed us to bring all these groups together, along with expectant and new parents to learn from, share stories and advice, and be stronger together.
As World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated worldwide, Community Chesterfield is proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of the Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire, NHS Derbyshire Community Health Services, and our student nurses and midwives. Together, we have fostered an empowering and nurturing environment for breastfeeding mothers and babies in Chesterfield and beyond. Our shared commitment to supporting breastfeeding reflects the strength and impact of collaborative efforts. Let us continue to celebrate and advocate for breastfeeding, creating a healthier and happier future for our communities.
Happy World Breastfeeding Week!
If you’re feeling inspired to join in, the Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire is hosting a World Breastfeeding Week picnic at Bolsover Castle on Friday 4th August between 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. English Heritage has very kindly offered free access to anyone attending the picnic near the wooden play area within the Castle grounds, and the Breastfeeding Network team would love to see more families attend.