Congratulations to Morrisons Anniesland for being awarded Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland accreditation in Glasgow.

Breastfeeding is important to the health of both mother and baby. While many new mums start breastfeeding, some stop within a few weeks or months. This is often because they feel there’s a lack of support, particularly when they want to feed their baby outside their home.

Despite protection from the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Equality Act 2010, many mothers can still feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in public spaces and Scotland has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in Europe. 

The Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Scheme allows organisations to uphold and actively support these laws by prominently displaying their membership of the scheme, encouraging mums to feel relaxed and confident about breastfeeding on their premises. Supported by the Scottish Government, the scheme aims to provide mums with positive experiences of breastfeeding when in public.

Annette Dougan from our Health and Social Care Partnership’s (HSCP) North West Health Improvement Team, said: “Our staff work with mothers, their families, local communities and organisations to promote the benefits of breastfeeding and the importance of a healthy diet throughout early childhood. We’re delighted that Morrisons Anniesland has signed up to the scheme which will help women to breastfeed with confidence. We ask any other organisations in Glasgow to get in touch and we will help them register.”

Rachel Galbraith (Community Champion) is delighted that Morrisons have joined other retailers in achieving Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland accreditation. She said: “Supermarkets are often situated in the heart of a community and can be an ideal place to meet others and feed their babies without feeling embarrassed or judged. We have always aimed to provide breastfeeding families with a warm, inclusive and supportive environment for feeding their children.”  

To sign up and become a member of the BFS Scheme email annette.dougan@ggc.scot.nhs.uk, jacalyn.mcilwham@ggc.scot.nhs.uk or fiona.hughes@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.