A church in Bassetlaw has become the first in the district to be given Breastfeeding friendly (BFF) accreditation.
All Saints Church, Harworth & Bircotes, just off Church Lane were successfully accredited as part of the Breastfeeding Friendly in Bassetlaw programme on November 6th.
Vicar of All Saints Church Nicky Skipworth became aware of the BFF scheme after seeing a poster in a library. The church embraced the idea and spent over a year preparing for the assessment by ordering equipment such as chairs, cushions, new signage and welcomers training. They also had some help through a grant by the Tickhill and District Lions Club to purchase two screens to go alongside the other equipment.
The BFF programme was launched to encourage businesses and venues within Nottinghamshire to provide a more welcoming and positive environment for breastfeeding mothers.
Nicky Skipworth said: “I’m so pleased and proud that All Saints’ Church and our nearby Church Hall has achieved accreditation as Bassetlaw Breastfeeding venues. I know All Saints’ will remain committed to inclusivity and the wellbeing of every kind of family.”
Cllr Lynne Schuller, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing added: “I am so happy to celebrate Harworth All Saints Church and Church Hall becoming a Breastfeeding friendly environment as both Health and Wellbeing cabinet member and one of the local Ward members.
“It’s fantastic that Harworth has become the first in the district to have a church gain the accreditation, it is important that as part of our Vision 2040, we continue to work towards a healthier Bassetlaw as we support mums to breastfeed their babies with confidence.
“It isn’t always easy though, knowing there is a safe and comfortable space to feed your baby can take away some of the stress and allow you to socialise more easily and better engage in your community. The Church I know continues to strive towards being more inclusive, welcoming families is part of a wider ethos in providing a welcoming atmosphere, allowing parents to relax and nurture their infant and I congratulate them on the work completed.”
To find out where the nearest breastfeeding friendly places are in Bassetlaw, visit our website: https://www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/evironmental-health/breastfeeding-friendly-in-bassetlaw
Last Updated on Tuesday, December 17, 2024