Breastfeeding mums become calendar girls to support Bosom Buddies

A group of  mums from across Mid Essex have been transformed into calendar girls to support a vital breastfeeding
support group.

The voluntary support group Bosom Buddies, came together to create the Breast of Essex 2010-11 calendar which is launching this month.

Bosom Buddies are trained peer supporters offering their time to run breastfeed support groups and visit new mums on maternity wards.

The aim of the calendar is to raise the profile of breastfeeding and create a positive image.

The proceeds from sales will go towards keeping the much needed support groups for breastfeeding mums running.

Breastfeeding mum Sarah Campbell, decided to become a Bosom Buddies calendar girl just six months after giving birth to her baby girl Grace.

Sarah says:  “During my stay at St Johns Hospital in Chelmsford, I met a Bosom Buddies Peer Supporter who was a great help to me in the early stages of breastfeeding and told me all about support groups in my area.

“Having met a Peer Supporter on the maternity ward, I knew exactly where to go for help when I encountered problems a few weeks down the line. With the support I received at the group, I was able to carry on breastfeeding.”

The 18 month calendar will be officially launched at the Bosom Buddies annual Picnic in the Park, at Bell Meadow Park in Chelmsford at 12 noon 22 June.

The fun day will also include family activities including Pilates, reflexology and entertainment for little ones.

Child Health Improvement Manager at Central Essex Community Services, Zoe Oddy said: “We know that breastfeeding has huge benefits to both mother and baby, which extend long beyond the actual period of breastfeeding. Staying with the decision to breastfeed isn’t always easy, especially if a mother is experiencing problems or when a mother is feeling particularly tired and unsupported.

“This is when these extremely committed and passionate volunteers become invaluable.”

The calendar will be available to order on the day for £5 or from the Bosom Buddies website for £5 and postage and packaging.

For more information or to order your calendar, visit:  www.bosombuddiesessex.co.uk