THE BIG Latch On will help support breastfeeding mothers this week.

Health and care services across the district will support the global campaign to celebrate breastfeeding, with events in Keighley and Bradford.

Women will gather to breastfeed, offer peer support to each other, and try to break the record for the most children breastfeeding simultaneously.

Women should meet at Keighley Town Hall on Friday, August 3 at 10am, or outside Cartwright Hall Art Gallery, Lister Park, Manningham, on Saturday August 4 at 10am.

An event will be held on August 9 from 11am to 35pm at the Broadway Shopping Centre in Bradford city centre, open to any families, or soon-to-be families, who want more information or support with breastfeeding.

They can pop along for an informal chat with Bradford breastfeeding buddies, peer supporters, children’s centre champions, a health visitor and midwife.

The Big Latch On aims to protect, promote and support breastfeeding families by raising awareness of breastfeeding and help communities to support one another.

Jane Dickens, Strategic Breastfeeding Lead at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, said breastfeeding was the healthiest start mothers could give their babies.

She said: “Breastmilk is nutritionally balanced with the perfect amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and iron to help your baby grow. It’s also a great excuse to sit down and have a cuddle with your baby, whilst building a strong and loving bond.”

Alison Moore, Senior Public Health Manager of Bradford Council’s Health Improvement team and Breastfeeding Lead, said breastfeeding could have can have a huge positive impact on the health and wellbeing of babies, and last a lifetime.

Visit bdct.nhs.uk/breastfeeding-bradford for further information.