David Drew MP has backed the Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative.

Unicef UK is calling on the Government to tackle the UK’s low breastfeeding rates and improve the health of children by leading action to remove the barriers – social, cultural, economic, physical and practical – that make it difficult for women to breastfeed in the UK. 

Powerful new evidence provides a compelling case to alter UK attitudes and practices, both locally and nationally, in order to support women to breastfeed for as long as they wish.

Mr Drew said: ‘There is overwhelming evidence that breastfeeding gives babies the best possible start, it improves health and cuts costs.

“And yet the UK has some of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world, with only 34 per cent of babies receiving any breastmilk at six months, compared with 71 per cent in Norway, despite the World Health Organization recommendation that all babies are exclusively breastfed for six months. 

“A number of my constituents have got in touch to bring this issue to my attention, so I know how important it is for mothers, families and health professionals in Stroud.

Sue Ashmore, Unicef UK baby friendly initiative director, said: “We want to change the conversation around breastfeeding and acknowledge the collective responsibility of us all.

“We need to recognise that improving the UK’s low breastfeeding rates requires action across government, healthcare and community settings to build systems that support women and families. It is fantastic to have David’s support.”