SWINDON mums will unite and show the benefits of breastfeeding as part of a worldwide celebration.

The Big Latch On, a worldwide celebration of breastfeeding, is marking its tenth anniversary and is urging mums to join in the global synchronised breastfeeding event being held at Lydiard Park on Saturday at 10am, marking the start of World Breastfeeding Week.

Although the number of breastfeeding mums in the borough at six to eight weeks exceeds the national average, less than half of mums feed their baby this way.

Mum-of-two Clare, aged 33, joined the local support group Swindon Breastmates to help her with breastfeeding Skye, now 15-weeks-old.

She said: “I was determined to successfully breastfeed Skye after failing the first time with Max, who is nearly two.

“I felt awful and didn’t realise there was all this free practical help and emotional support out there. After joining the group, I gained so much knowledge and also reassurance – sometimes just knowing someone is going through exactly the same thing and sticking with it together really helps.”

Despite struggling in the early days, Clare persevered and it’s reaping rewards as Skye is a healthy weight and thriving.

She said: “I’m so pleased and it’s such a lovely feeling to see her satisfied after feeds and meeting all her milestones. It’s a myth that breastfeeding comes naturally to all mums – it certainly didn’t with me, but I’m so glad I worked at it and didn’t give up.

“Breastmates has been brilliant and I would encourage mums to make use of the support because there’s nothing to be embarrassed about with having problems along the way. You’ll get there eventually and I’ve also made new friends in the process.”

Councillor Brian Mattock, Swindon Borough Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “Swindon Breastmates is a fantastic group which can be a real lifeline for local mums who are breastfeeding and need practical guidance or emotional support during what can be a difficult time.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the peer volunteers who give their valuable time, experience and expertise to help others – it really does make a difference.

"The Big Latch On is an opportunity to raise awareness of the huge benefits of breastfeeding as well as promote the wealth of free support on offer which all mums are very welcome to call on.”

See www.nhs.uk/breastfeeding and www.swindonbreastmates.co.uk for more information.