Councillor calls for rethink of Shropshire breastfeeding service changes after BfN support ends.
The Council will still support breastfeeding using a new community contract led by Oswestry Community Action (QUBE). The Council said BfN chose not to continue.
Councillor Olly Rose wants the Council to rethink things. She’s asking Oswestry Town Council for support; they meet this Wednesday to discuss it.
Shropshire’s rates are interesting. More babies breastfeed at birth, but the rate drops by six to eight weeks and sits below the national average by 10%.
BfN’s support helped many people. Face-to-face help solved some feeding issues, and this support allowed some to continue.
Trained volunteers power the network, and these volunteers breastfed before. It’s hard to see who else can replace their help.
BfN supported many families, helping over 750 families since 2021 in Shrewsbury, Ludlow, and Oswestry. They also attended events all around Shropshire.
They helped families facing tough times and celebrated feeding goals and big steps. The focus was on good information, which helped families feel confident in choices.
Shropshire parents and local partners gave great feedback. Volunteers built a strong reputation, and the charity holds great pride in this, which will leave a lasting positive impact.
The BfN project in Telford will keep going, unaffected by this decision.