Dads of a breastfed child can feel pretty useless at times, especially if it’s not going well. Having these groups gave my wife and son the perfect support network which not only gave my son the ideal start in life but for me, personally, gave me comfort they were not alone. I can’t comprehend the connection breastfeeding gives a mother to a child but for me every mum should be given all the support they need to attempt that journey.
These breastfeeding support groups have been a vital resource for myself, my partner and my little girl. After a tricky birth I can honestly say without them, my partner would have really struggled with her breastfeeding journey. Which is still going strong now after nearly 3 years! We are due our second little girl any day now and was fully intending on using their services again. Be it for support, advice or simply reassurance. Knowing nothing about breastfeeding myself, I felt pretty useless in those early days and these groups gave my partner the support she needed to continue. I only have to look at the statistics and benefits of breastfeeding to know that this is the best thing for my children. Services like these are vital for mothers and I am saddened that they are now being cut. It seems very small-minded to save some money for now, what could potentially cost the NHS and other services a lot more in future if mothers aren’t able/supported/given the right resources to continue breastfeeding.
We really need perspectives from everyone affected by the planned cuts to breastfeeding support services! Not just mothers. Get your children’s Dad involved and ask him to:
