A maternity unit in Surrey has received a prestigious international award from Unicef as recognition of increased breastfeeding rates and high quality care women receive there.
Ashford and St Peter’s Maternity Unit received the Baby Friendly Award, following a 5-year partnership with Unicef UK’s Baby Friendly Initiative, encouraging breastfeeding and improve maternity care.
Infant Feeding Lead Midwife, Jo Wilding-Hilcote told Eagle Radio: We worked through the three levels to gain level three and full accreditation.
“Breastfeeding protects babies against a wide range of serious illnesses including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections in infancy as well as asthma, cardiovascular disease and diabetes in later life.
“Gaining level 3 accreditation has only been possible with the full team working together and doing their bit.
“I’m privileged to be here and to be a part of this team.”
For more information about Unicef UK’s Baby Friendly Initiative, visit the website here.
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