Conference helps Hywel Dda staff strengthen knowledge on breastfeeding

Pictured above: Jan Jones, HCSW; Padi Sutherland, Infant Feeding Specialist Midwife; Sandra Imperato, HCSW and Charlotte North, Midwife.

Thanks to donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, funded eight members of staff to attend the UNICEF/WHO Baby Friendly Initiative 2024 Virtual Conference.

Janice Jones, HCSW; Sandra Imperato, HCSW; Deborah Weymouth, Midwife; Kelly Rees, Midwife; Izabela Middleton, Midwife; Anwen Brown, Midwife; Charlotte North, Midwife and Padi Sutherland, Infant Feeding Coordinator Specialist Midwife, were all able to attend the conference.

The conference showcased new research and innovations in the fields of infant feeding and relationship building. The conference covered a range of topics including the infant feeding support needs of women with severe mental illness, compassion and innovation in healthcare, formula pricing, and more.

Padi Sutherland said: "We are very grateful that charitable donations have enabled our staff to partake in this conference.

“The conference has helped our staff strengthen their knowledge and evidence-base to support increasing the potential for women and birthing people who breastfeed in the longer term.

“Improving the UK’s breastfeeding rates would have a profoundly positive impact on child health. In Hywel Dda University Health Board, we are committed to supporting families to better support their needs around breast feeding.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”