Derry Well Women celebrates successful World Breastfeeding awareness event

The event brought together local families from across the city and district to celebrate breastfeeding, raise awareness of its many benefits, and recognise the importance of providing ongoing support to women throughout pregnancy and early parenthood.

There was an opportunity for mothers to connect with one another, share experiences, access information and support, and celebrate the achievements of families who have embarked on their breastfeeding journeys. Activities throughout the morning highlighted the positive impact that breastfeeding can have on the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby, while also recognising the role that partners, families and communities play in supporting breastfeeding mothers.

Among those attending were representatives from the Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT), local healthcare professionals, and the city and district’s Mayor, Grace Ui Niallais whose presence demonstrated strong community support for breastfeeding families and maternal health initiatives.

Speaking following the event, Rhonda Murphy, General Manager of Derry Well Women said: “We were absolutely delighted with the turnout and support shown for our Breastfeeding Awareness Event. Seeing so many mothers, babies, partners, family members and healthcare professionals together highlights the importance of creating breastfeeding-friendly communities where women feel informed, valued and supported.

"World Breastfeeding Week is an important opportunity to celebrate breastfeeding and raise awareness of the benefits it brings to both mothers and babies. It also reminds us of the need to continue ensuring women have access to the information, encouragement and practical support they need throughout their breastfeeding journey.”

Derry Well Women has a long-standing commitment to supporting women and families through a range of maternity and wellbeing programmes. Through antenatal education, breastfeeding support services, and community-based initiatives, the organisation works to empower women with knowledge, confidence and practical support during pregnancy and early parenthood.

The organisation also acknowledged the invaluable contribution from the Western Health and Social Care Trust in helping make the event possible.

‘We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Western Health and Social Care Trust for their ongoing funding, partnership and support. Their continued investment enables us to provide essential services and events that benefit local women and families and helps ensure breastfeeding support remains accessible within our community."

As World Breastfeeding Week continues to shine a spotlight on the importance of breastfeeding support worldwide, Derry Well Women remains committed to promoting maternal wellbeing and ensuring women across the North West have access to the support they need to make informed choices for themselves and their babies.

Derry Well Women Breastfeeding Support Group meets Weekly each Thursday morning from 10 am – 12 midday with a Health Visitor present each week to provide advice and support.

For further information about Derry Well Women’s antenatal and breastfeeding support services, visit www.derrywellwoman.org or telephone 02871360777.