NHS Gloucestershire is being presented with a Baby Friendly Award from UNICEF

Gloucestershire mothers could find places to breastfeed more easily if a new county-wide scheme takes off.

Breastfeeding-friendly cafes, shops and other businesses are being encouraged to register with the Gloucestershire Welcomes Breastfeeding scheme.

They will receive window stickers to display and also be listed online.

Sue Wild from NHS Gloucestershire said the scheme will “help mums recognise places where they can breastfeed their babies confidently and comfortably”.

The scheme is being run by the Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Supporters’ Network (GBSN) with support from NHS Gloucestershire.

Since it was launched in May, three businesses have signed up to it including Paint It Yourself Pottery in Cheltenham.

Owner Rachel Rushworth said she had welcomed breastfeeding mothers for almost ten years.

She said it was a “natural part of being in the shop” as it was a child-friendly place where mothers spent a lot of time.

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is also to receive a Baby Friendly Award.

UNICEF (United Nation’s Children’s Fund) will present plaques to the trust in recognition of the support given by health professionals to encourage successful breastfeeding.

Vivien Mortimore, NHS Gloucestershire’s head of midwifery, said hospital staff had “really supported the initiative and worked tremendously hard to ensure success”.

From http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-13873902