New breastfeeding workshops for supportive dads
Published: 3 May 2024 at 16:00
Anglia Ruskin University is to hold information sessions for fathers and dads-to-be
Workshops to enable new fathers and dads-to-be to find out more about the benefits and practicalities of breastfeeding are being organised by Midwifery lecturers and lactation specialists from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).
The free 90-minute Breastfeeding Workshops for Dads will provide support and information for expectant and new dads about the subject of breastfeeding, covering issues such as their role within the family unit and how to support a breastfeeding partner, as well as the health benefits and practicalities of breastfeeding.
Research has found that maternity services in the UK focus heavily on women, and fathers often feel peripheral during the time of a new baby’s arrival. Another issue is the accessibility of services, many of which are only available during traditional working hours – making attendance a challenge for many working fathers.
Dr Maxine Wallis-Redworth, Course Leader for BSc Midwifery at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said:
“We know from previous research that new fathers often feel overlooked and ignored by maternity services. Breastfeeding is seen as the domain of the mother but in practice, fathers have a key role in the family unit. Many would welcome the opportunity to find out more about breastfeeding and learn how they can support their partner during those challenging first few months in the life of a new baby.
“We wanted to put on these sessions, run by qualified lactation consultants and midwives, to help support and educate new dads about breastfeeding and offer up the answers to any questions they may have. The sessions are designed to be as accessible as possible and they are open to any dad-to-be or new dads, not just Cambridge residents.”
The first session will take place from 6.30pm until 8pm at ARU’s Cambridge campus in East Road on Thursday, 23 May, and a second workshop is being held at the same time on Thursday, 18 July. Both workshops are free to attend, but booking is essential. For more information, visit https://www.aru.ac.uk/health-medicine-and-social-care/nursing-and-midwifery/breastfeeding-workshops-for-dads