"Highland Infant Feeding Support (Dingwall)"

The infant feeding support system in provided in the Highlands has been brilliant. Prior to birth I was offered an online course (via facebook), a group 'parentcraft' session, and a 1-to-1 session with my infant feeding support worker Daione. I did all three and felt prepared for breastfeeding. 

After birth Daione offered home visits, which I was lucky enough not to require. The weekly drop-in sessions she runs have been invaluable - the perfect set-up for new mums. A relaxed environment and fellow mums and healthcare professionals to answer questions on any worries, not only breastfeeding. I attend weekly even if I have no issues myself. No other baby groups offer such a welcoming place for mums with babies as young as a few days around other mums who know exactly what you are going through. As well as ensuring I have a well fed baby the group also greatly helps my mental wellbeing.

On top of breastfeeding support Daione also arranges other ventures to drop-in to the sessions - such as baby sling demos, play support workers, and baby sensory tasters. These are all really useful too!

I am also lucky that living midway between two feed support groups on weeks when the DIngwall group cannot run I am made to feel really welcome at the Alness group run by Lana.