CORK businesses are being encouraged to display a ‘breastfeeding welcome here mark’, as part of a new campaign.
First 1,000 Days is a movement led by Danone Early Life Nutrition which aims to drive awareness amongst parents-to-be and new parents about the importance of nutrition during the first 1000 days of life, from conception up until a child’s second birthday.
Pictured launching the ‘breastfeeding welcome here mark’ by First 1000 days today was mum of two and Xposé star Karen Koster.Pic:Naoise Culhane-no fee
Established in keeping with the goals of the National Maternity Strategy, the campaign argues that a broader societal change is required in Ireland in order to promote a more positive culture around breastfeeding, as Ireland has one of the lowest rates of breastfeeding in the world.
Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is known to have a positive impact on the long-term health of a child, protecting them against life-threatening illnesses such as obesity, asthma and diabetes. In Ireland, the number of mothers still exclusively breastfeeding by six months is as low as 6%.
Michelle Gray, First 1000 Days Dietitian said: “We’re delighted to launch the breastfeeding mark.
“Through this initiative, we hope to encourage mothers, business owners and society at large to welcome breastfeeding in public and see it as ‘the norm’.
“We are delighted to be working with representative bodies, retailers and hospitality businesses and are excited to welcome many, many more on board as the breastfeeding mark grows.”
A consortium of Irish businesses including cafes and restaurants, pharmacies, shopping centres and professional healthcare bodies have backed the introduction of the welcome mark and have vowed to display it prominently.
In Cork, the mark will be displayed by Macroom Holistic Therapy Centre, De Calf Café, Railway View Pharmacy, the Old Imperial Hotel, Albridge Retailing Ltd., Gymboree East Cork, Play Therapy Cork, Insomnia and Boots.
Businesses wishing to join the movement and display the mark are encouraged to visit www.first1000days.ie/bfw in order to receive collateral such as stickers, and displays cards. Those wishing to find support, resources and helpful links should visit www.breastfeeding.ie
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