Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding Strategy

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS) developed the Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding Strategy in partnership with a wide range of partners and groups across the region.

This strategy outlines our commitment to improving breastfeeding rates across Cheshire and Merseyside - particularly the duration of exclusive breastfeeding to six months which has the potential to significantly enhance the health and wellbeing of both mothers and babies. In doing so, we aim to reduce health inequalities and the long-term demand on health and care services.

The strategy sets out a number of aims, including:

• Supporting families in making informed feeding choices
• Empowering mothers with confidence and knowledge
• Increasing breastfeeding initiation and continuation
• Improving access to infant feeding support and resources
• Embedding breastfeeding as a social norm across our communities

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed their time, insights and experiences to help shape this strategy. Details of organisations involved are included within the strategy document.