Shropshire Star

'Deep shock and sadness' as Shropshire breastfeeding peer support groups to end

A breastfeeding peer support service for new mums is to finish, prompting “deep shock and sadness”.

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Breastfeeding Network Shropshire said it has not had its contract renewed so the service will be withdrawn.

However, families in the Telford & Wrekin Council area will not be affected.

Meetings in Ludlow, Shrewsbury and Oswestry will go ahead as planned this coming week before the service is withdrawn.

A spokesperson for Breastfeeding Network Shropshire said: “We are sorry to announce that our contract to provide Shropshire’s breastfeeding peer support service has not been renewed. 

“We are deeply shocked, disappointed and saddened by the decision as the local service has been effectively supporting women, parents and families since 2021.

“Since the service started in 2021, we have supported over 750 families with our community groups in Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Oswestry, along with attending events across Shropshire.

“We have held space for families facing challenges with their feeding journey and navigating parenthood, and celebrated with families as they achieved milestones and feeding goals. 

“We strived to provide evidenced-based information and research to empower families to feel confident with their decisions.

“Over the past few years, Shropshire has generated so much positive feedback from parents and families and also from local partners.  

“The strong reputation of the service built from the dedication and skills of local volunteers is something the charity is very proud of and will leave a lasting legacy.

"Please join the Shropshire team for final groups next week to celebrate the journey that the project has been on.”

The last events will be at Helena Lane Community Centre in Ludlow from on Tuesday, February 4, Sunflower House in Shrewsbury on Thursday, February 6 and Oswestry Library on Friday, February 7. All sessions run from 10am to 12pm.

“It has been an honour and privilege to be able to support families in Shropshire the last few years,” the spokesperson added.

The National Breastfeeding Helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year on 0300 100 0212 for anyone needing infant feeding support and a friendly listening ear.

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