"BAMBIS Breastfeeding support inLiverpool."

I initially was looking for breastfeeding support for my daughter's friend, who lives in Liverpool. I am a breastfeeding facilitator (La Leche League/BFI trained) with over 11 years experience working with vulnerable families in a paid role.

I have remained on BAMBIS Facebook page because they were happy to let me offer my experience and knowledge to initiate and sustain breastfeeding journeys with dyad's and their families.

What I have seen through working this way(voluntarily) is the difference in continuation of breastfeeding journeys by many mothers who were close to discontinuing their breastfeeding journeys. Issues range from lack of understanding Supply and demand bf principles, to sleep deprivation and conflicting advice from Health Care Professionals. Tongue tie problems and over/under diagnosis of the resulting problems, positioning for optimum latch, and basic physiological difficulties ie. tiny mouth/huge nipple are also prohibiting factors which require support and care for dyad's. Often, professionals do not have time or are not available at the early point which makes or breaks that opportunity for breastfeeding to be successful. BAMBIS breastfeeding support (peer supporters) are often what makes that journey continue, or not. I think it is vital therefore that the cuts to peer support are stopped, and if we invest in them, the overall gain with regard to health spend and public spending on children's services because the understanding and bonding that bf encourages helps to ensure parenting becomes a more understood responsibility.

The feedback I have had from parents about peer support (BAMBIS) in Liverpool is so very positive, and personally I have had many thanks for support I have given that has enabled many many women to breastfeed for AT LEAST 6 months. Some of these women have had traumatic births, c sections and /or babies who have been in NICU or re-admitted.