Hull’s Family Hubs have been awarded a Certificate of Commitment from UNICEF.
This is the first step towards gaining recognition from the UK Committee for UNICEF’s Baby Friendly Initiative.
The Baby Friendly Initiative is a global programme which aims to transform healthcare for babies, their mothers and families as part of a wider global partnership between UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO).
In the UK, the Baby Friendly Initiative works with public services to better support families with feeding and developing close, loving relationships in order to ensure that all babies get the best possible start in life.
The Certificate of Commitment recognises that the Family Hubs are dedicated to implementing recognised best practice standards.
Councillor Linda Tock, the portfolio holder for Children’s Services at Hull City Council, said: “This award from the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to increase breastfeeding rates and improve care for all mothers at Hull Family Hubs.
“Breastfeeding protects babies against a wide range of serious illnesses, including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections in infancy, as well as cardiovascular disease, asthma, diabetes and obesity later in life. We also know that breastfeeding reduces the mother’s risk of some cancers, and that it supports the mental health of both mother and baby.”
“At Hull’s Family Hubs, we set out to ensure that all mothers and babies are supported to form a close and loving relationship – whatever their choice of feeding method – as this is the best start for every baby.”
UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative Deputy Programme Director Anne Woods, said: “We are delighted that Hull Family Hubs have received this award.
“Our work to support breastfeeding is based on extensive and resounding evidence that breastfeeding saves lives, improves health and cuts costs in every country worldwide, rich and poor alike. Mothers visiting the Hull Family Hubs have the satisfaction of knowing that their midwives/health visitors are aiming to provide the highest standard of care.”
Find out more about what’s on offer at Hull’s Family Hubs by visiting www.familyhubshull.org.uk.
