More than 145 venues in the borough have signed up to the ‘Dudley Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme’ ensuring breastfeeding mothers receive an especially warm welcome.

For local mums with a baby, it helps to know where they are welcome to breastfeed when they are out and about. The scheme, a joint initiative between Dudley Public Health and Dudley council, gives local cafes, restaurants, leisure centres, libraries, Children’s Centres and other public venues free resources to let mothers know they are welcome to breastfeed anywhere on the premises.

The resources include a sticker for their front window and a poster to display inside. The venues are also required to undertake a short questionnaire to ensure that they will support breastfeeding mothers.

Diane Woolliscroft , Breastfeeding Co-ordinator for Dudley Public health said: “Breastfeed is the healthiest way to feed your baby as it gives them all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life. It is really encouraging to see so many venues signing up to the scheme.”

To find a breastfeeding welcome venue mothers should look out for the breastfeeding welcome sticker and posters or visit the Family Information Service at http://fis.dudley.gov.uk/fsd For further information on breastfeeding support or to be put in touch with a Breastfeeding Buddy contact your local children’s centre. Alternatively ring the Family Information Service on 01384 814398 for details of your nearest children’s centre.