On the 1st May thousands of mums will take part in The Big Breastfeeding Café and mums in Wales will be joining the fun.
Now in its 4th year, the nationwide initiative led by breastfeeding brand Medela, will connect thousands of Mums via a network of mini events taking place on the same day across the UK, with 20 cafes in the country including 7 in Cardiff, as well as Abergavenny, Monmouth, Newport, Carmarthen, Swansea, Penarth, Cardigan, Aberystwyth, Brecon, Newtown and Haverfordwest.
Over 200 mini events will take place on the 1st May, to celebrate everyone’s personal breastfeeding experience – whatever it looks like. This year, alongside cafes being hosted by mums in their own homes and independent coffee shops, the national chain Coffee#1, will also take part. Events will be held in each of its 91 outlets.
From the peaceful Shetland Islands to the busy London boroughs, across to Wales and down to Cornwall, the 200+ mini events will take place across the length and breadth of the country.
Whether it’s 3 or 10 mums getting involved, the important thing is to inspire, empower and provide support to those who wish to, or are already breastfeeding – whatever their personal journey looks like. Bringing parents together, the cafes provide a space for mums (dads welcome too!) to share their experiences of breastfeeding, challenges, rewards and first-hand advice over a cup of tea and most importantly, a slice of cake.
Speaking about being involved, a spokesperson from Coffee#1’s said: “Coffee#1 are delighted to be supporting the Big Breastfeeding Café 2019. We strive to create an inviting, inclusive space for everyone in the community and welcoming breastfeeding mothers every day is part of that. We’re really looking forward to the occasion.”
“The age-old phrase of ‘mum knows best’ rings true,” says Sioned Hilton, Medela UK’s Education Manager. “We are finding time and time again that, personal advice from mums who have breastfed themselves, is invaluable. We know that breastfeeding can be challenging, but we also know that a problem shared, is often a problem halved. Ensuring that all breastfeeding mums have a reassuring and supportive network is vital.”
The annual event has garnered a host of celebrity support from high profile mums including Giovanna Fletcher, Helen Skelton, Georgia Jones. Izzy Judd, Jessica Cunningham, Zoe Hardman and many more.
