Town wins baby friendly award

WARRINGTON has won an award for the quality of its services for breastfeeding mothers.
UNICEF, the United Nation’s Children’s Fund, has awarded its prestigious Baby Friendly Award to the Warrington division of Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Trust.
This recognises that mothers and babies at Warrington are receiving the best evidence based information to support, inform and promote breastfeeding.
Carole Williams, deputy divisional director at the Trust, said: “This is a fantastic achievement.
“We are extremely fortunate in Warrington to have a dedicated and passionate team of an Infant Feeding Coordinator, Health Visitors and support staff whose commitment to the promotion of breast feeing is paramount.
“The work of this team should not be underestimated. They go out of their way to ensure breastfeeding mothers have access to appropriate venues and facilities and they work tirelessly to promote the health and well being of mothers and their babies.
“We are extremely proud of them and delighted UNICEF has recognised their achievements.”
Avril Smith, Warrington’s infant feeding co-ordinator, said: “Breastfeeding protects babies against a wide range of serious illnesses including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections.”
The Baby Friendly Initiative, set up by UNICEF and the World Health Organisation, is a global programme which provides a practical and effective way for health services to improve the acre provided for all mothers and babies.