Oldham families gather to normalise breastfeeding in public

Families gathered at Alexandra Park's Environment Centre to celebrate World Breastfeeding in Public Day, marking a significant step toward normalising breastfeeding in Oldham. The event, organised by Home-Start HOST's Infant Feeding Peer Support Team with Oldham Council backing, brought together new and expectant parents to connect with healthcare professionals and community organisations.

Grace Redmond, a mother who has attended the event for two years, shared her personal experience of breastfeeding in public. 'I've fed hidden under muslins, in corners of cafes, and shielded by my pram,' she said. 'It's amazing to have this event to raise awareness and promote breastfeeding.' Her words highlight the everyday challenges many parents face when feeding their babies outside the home.

The gathering comes as breastfeeding rates in Oldham reach a record high, with 52 per cent of babies aged six to eight weeks now being at least partially breastfed. This represents a significant improvement in local infant feeding practices and demonstrates the impact of community support initiatives. Parents at the event took part in craft activities and had breastfeeding portraits taken as mementos of their feeding journey.

Home-Start HOST, which operates across Oldham, Tameside, Glossop, Stockport, and Bolton, provides infant feeding support through home visits, hospital programmes, and peer support groups. The organisation also runs the Baby Welcome scheme in Tameside and Oldham, which identifies businesses that offer a welcoming environment for breastfeeding parents. This practical approach helps create a network of supportive spaces across the borough.

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, cabinet member for children and young people, praised the role of such initiatives in raising awareness and reducing stigma. 'It's been great to see so many local groups and professionals coming together to show their support for local families,' he said. The event represents a community-wide effort to ensure parents feel comfortable and supported when feeding their babies in public spaces.