Locala Community Partnerships, which provides NHS community healthcare services across Kirklees, has gained UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) Stage 3 accreditation. This is the highest level and means local families can be assured that they are receiving the best possible information and advice about feeding their babies.
The BFI assessment is based on a global evidence-based best practice framework designed to support breastfeeding and ensure that all parents make informed choices about feeding their babies and feel supported in their choice of feeding method.
Assessors telephoned new mums (with a baby up to two months old) in Kirklees and 100% said their conversations with their health visitors about feeding were meaningful and consistent and they felt supported. The pass rate is 80%.
The work towards gaining the accreditation has been steered by health visitors, Nicola Duncanson and Ciara Schofield, who job share as Infant Feeding Leads. They want to thanks their colleagues for their commitment in making sure that all processes meet the exacting standards.
They said: “We particularly want to thank the mums for their comments about our services and for sharing their experiences.”
The BFI assessors commended Locala on policies, procedures and clinic settings as well as the trained volunteer Breastfeeding Peer Supporters who attend Baby Bistros and Baby Cafes across Kirklees to share their breastfeeding experiences with new mums.
Ann Hall and Kim Tate are two of the mums who regularly attend the Baby Café held every Thursday morning at the Staincliffe and Healey Children’s Centre and they are pleased Locala has the accreditation.
Said Anne: If it wasn’t for the support I’ve had and being able to come here I wouldn’t be breastfeeding now. It’s great that the team has been recognised for the work they put in.
Kim agreed and added:” The professional support and being able to talk to other mums helps so much. I had so many questions but that’s OK – everyone is so friendly.”