Westmorland and Furness Council has launched a new Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme across its public-facing council buildings as part of celebrations for World Breastfeeding Week 2026.
The international awareness week, taking place from 1–7 August, carries the theme "Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems", highlighting the importance of ensuring families have access to ongoing encouragement, support and welcoming spaces throughout their breastfeeding journey.
The new scheme aims to help parents and carers feel confident and supported to breastfeed whenever they need to. Posters and window stickers will be displayed across public facing council buildings to show that families are welcome and supported in these spaces.
The initiative forms part of a wider commitment to creating inclusive, family-friendly communities and ensuring children have the best possible start in life.
Throughout World Breastfeeding Week, special events will be held in Best Start Family Hubs across Westmorland and Furness, including family picnics and community activities, providing opportunities for families to come together, access support and connect with others.
Councillor Janet Battye, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Skills, said:
Breastfeeding, in my experience, offers many benefits for both babies and parents, in helping them get off to a good start in life. Families need support in the choices they make, and this is available to them both through local health services and Family Hubs.
We look forward to welcoming families to the picnics and drop-in stay-and-play sessions taking place throughout the week. We hope these events will provide an opportunity to connect with feeding specialists, access helpful advice and guidance, and build friendships with other families for ongoing peer support."
Families seeking breastfeeding support or advice can visit their local Best Start Family Hub or access support through the Growing Healthy 0-19 Westmorland & Furness service.
To find out more, visit:
Best Start Family Hubs: https://www.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/family-help/best-start-family-hubs
Growing Healthy 0-19 Westmorland & Furness: https://hdftchildrenshealthservice.co.uk/ourservice/growing-healthy-0-19-westmorland-furness/
Or Email: BreastfeedingWelcome@cumbria.gov.uk
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