Dorset network is looking for mums who are passionate about breastfeeding to volunteer to support parents across the county.

VOLUNTEERS are being urged to come forward to become breastfeeding peer supports for new mums in Dorset.

The Breastfeeding Network (BfN) Dorset is commissioned by Public Health Dorset to provide families with evidence-based information and support with a range of everyday breastfeeding challenges, support with positioning and attachment, as well as emotional and moral support.

“From pregnancy through to natural-term weaning, combi-feeding, expressing or exclusively breastfeeding, all parents are welcome at any stage of their journey,” said a spokesperson.

The fully-funded training gives mums the opportunity to gain an OCN accredited level 2 qualification.

They will then go on to volunteer in their community, offering friendly support and information to other parents, as well as a safe space and a community for like-minded parents.

“Our volunteers receive regular supervision sessions to help with their ongoing training and support needs, and become part of the wider Breastfeeding Network team, as well as being able to go on and complete further training if they want to – dependent on availability of funding,” the spokesperson added.

The next BfN Dorset Level 2 peer helpers course is running from April 20, lasting for 12 weeks, with a two-hour session a week delivered online via Zoom.

BfN Dorset is looking for volunteers across the Vale, particularly: Blandford (Friday mornings), Dorchester (day tbc) and Sherborne (Tuesday mornings).

Sam Morris, a peer helper volunteer, said: “I’m very privileged to support families when they’re growing and moving into the next stage of their life, as much as I can help others, it’s personally rewarding to be in this lucky position, too.”

BfN Dorset service manager Ashley Gallimore added: “Our service relies on our amazing volunteers to support parents, and our training courses really equip our volunteers to do this.

If you are interested in becoming a peer helper, fill in the application form at www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/30859-2.

For more information about support groups in Dorset, visit www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/dorset.