Taranaki businesses welcome breastfeeding

April 16, 2009

A total of 45 businesses are now recognised as ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here’. This Taranaki District Health Board initiative acknowledges places in our community that are supportive of breastfeeding.

These places provide a welcoming atmosphere and all the facilities a mother needs while away from the home. “Getting around town with a five week old baby  in tow is not easy. It is great to know there are lots of places to go for a break and to breastfeed,” says Jess Coombe mother of  Addison.

Breastfeeding has countless benefits to both mother and child. It is one of the key priorities for the Ministry of Health. Their goal is to have babies breastfed exclusively for the first six months and then in conjunction with solids continued to be breastfed until after their first birthday.

Historically, Taranaki compares well with the national average. However, rates do drop after three months. “The support displayed by these businesses will make it easier for Taranaki mums to breastfeed for longer”, says Public Health Dietitian Jill Nicholls. 

Businesses who have met the criteria for the project will have a sticker on their front window. Posters with all participating businesses listed  can be found in libraries, Plunket rooms and at www.tdhb.org.nz

Click to view pdf

For more information contact

Jill Nicholls
Taranaki DHB
Health Promotion Unit
06 753 7777 extn 8540

Last updated: Monday, April 27, 2009