BREASTFEEDING mums need support and the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust are appealing for volunteers that can offer some advice.

The call for help comes as figures show Worcestershire mums are 73 percent likely to start breastfeeding straight away, seven percent lower than the national average.

And this drops to 44 per cent after the first six weeks.

To try and counter this drop potential volunteers from all over Worcestershire are invited to join a training programme to learn how to support pregnant women and new mothers.

The volunteer role will involve 15-20 hours of free training with specialist midwives, as well as the usual DBS checks, following which volunteers will visit women in hospital to offer support and advice.

Anna Weston, from Droitwich, knew she wanted to breastfeed her second child after gaining confidence with her first baby Jessica.

She said: "Even though I felt more confident with breastfeeding this time it was really useful to have dedicated volunteers on hand to sit down and talk you through it.

"The volunteers have more free time to give you support and advice, without it feeling like you’re taking up a midwife’s time. It’s reassuring to know they are there if you need them."

Infant feeding lead Becky Davenport said: "If you’re struggling to breastfeed you can feel very alone. By starting this network of trained volunteers, we will be able to offer new mums the help they need, when they need it.

"The volunteer programme is a great opportunity to work with NHS professionals, expand your knowledge and learn a lifelong skill, at the same time as contributing to your local community. There’s no experience necessary, but an interest in breastfeeding is essential."

Anyone interested in finding out more information can attend a meet and greet session on Wednesday, November 5, from 11am until 12.30pm at the Charles Hastings Education Centre, Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

If you would like to attend contact the team by emailing caroline.payne@worcsacute.nhs.uk or becky.davenport@worcsacute.nhs.uk.