Libraries across East Renfrewshire have attained accreditation for being ‘breastfeeding friendly.’ East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure (ERCL) worked closely with the East Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) to obtain the official status for its 10 libraries, as part of a national initiative backed by the Scottish Government and run by local health boards.

The Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Scheme aims to help people who breastfeed, as well as businesses, know their rights and responsibilities and help mothers have positive experiences.

Scott Simpson, head of libraries and information services at ERCL, said: “We have worked closely with the HSCP and are pleased to have accreditation confirmed for all of our libraries.

“We welcome families and host a range of events across each of our libraries, including our popular Bookbug sessions. It’s important to us that mothers have positive experiences of breastfeeding when using our facilities.”

Councillor Katie Pragnell, East Renfrewshire’s health and social care convener, added: “I would encourage local businesses to get involved with this scheme, as it’s important that parents feel comfortable breastfeeding their baby in public and it is completely free to sign up.

“There are many benefits to breastfeeding for mum and baby but, sadly, women don’t always feel welcome to do so in public spaces. This scheme is really important in our efforts to make East Renfrewshire as breastfeeding friendly as possible.

“The HSCP continues to support mums with breastfeeding through our health visitors and local breastfeeding support group.

“It’s a great support for mums during their breastfeeding journey.”

For more information, visit www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/breastfeeding-support-groups.