Breastfeeding welcome in Melksham

MELKSHAM Town councillors have supported plans to install ‘breastfeeding welcome’ signage at all town council facilities and parks in Melksham, to promote a more accepting attitude to breastfeeding in public.

At the community development committee meeting on Monday 23rd January, councillors agreed to the plans, initially put forward by councillor Tom Price.

Cllr Jon Hubbard said, “The whole idea of something like this is about breaking the stigma.”

There is no financial implication in joining the scheme, but the council will be required to adopt the ‘Breastfeeding Welcome’ policy, which includes adapting the space; creating a written policy for staff to ensure they know what is happening and where to direct complaints to; and ensure staff create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for the people breastfeeding.

Melksham Town Council will also be contacting businesses in the town, to encourage them to sign up to the scheme.

Cllr Saffi Rabey said, “I think we should definitely be contacting every business to do this in the town.”

The Breastfeeding Welcome scheme website, which enables people to find a breastfeeding welcome venue says, “Adopting this breastfeeding welcome scheme, displaying the breastfeeding welcome logo and greeting mothers and babies with a smile and an offer of assistance won’t cost you anything, but will have a powerful and positive impact on breastfeeding mothers and on your local reputation.”

Being a part of this scheme aligns with Melksham Town Council’s aims and values of; making Melksham a healthy place to live where everyone feels safe; Improving accessibility; raise pride where everyone is welcome and accepted; and promote Melksham as a great place to stay and visit.

Signs will now be installed in the businesses that have already signed up to the scheme and in the town council properties and facilities, and in play areas.