National breastfeeding week: Baby cafe boom
The latest addition to the rapidly expanding chain of Baby Cafes opened its doors on Monday 14th May to coincide with National Breastfeeding Week. This branch, the first in Croydon, joins nearby branches in Carshalton, Horley and Kingston, among others, in providing a relaxed drop-in centre for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and their children. Mums can get support, information, expert help, as well as informal social contact and, of course, coffee!
The Baby Cafe Charitable Trust is a relatively new charity, starting only in 2005, but it has already grown hugely even opening its first branch in the US. Anyone can apply to start a new branch and the charity supplies a start-up pack with their guidelines, rules and licence agreement for a small fee. Trained breastfeeding counsellor volunteers are an integral part of the Baby Cafe ethos so that mothers can get help and advice on breastfeeding in an informal atmosphere without an appointment. Husbands and partners are also welcome! [Liz Pilley]
