Peter Grant, MP for Glenrothes and Central Fife, has backed the Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative Call to Action campaign on breastfeeding.

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.

Commenting, Peter said:

“Whilst a mother should always be free to make her own decision about breastfeeding without judgement, it is important that those who do choose to breastfeed are supported.

“There is overwhelming evidence to suggest that breastfeeding gives babies the best start in life, yet the UK has some of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world – only 34% of babies are breastfed at six months, compared with 71% in Norway.

“It is therefore vital that we tackle the barriers to breastfeeding experienced by some women in this country. I know this is an issue that many of my constituents – mothers, families and health professionals – care passionately about, which is why I am supporting Unicef’s campaign."

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 the support of Peter Grant MP. By making this pledge, he is showing that he knows breastfeeding is a vitally important public health issue and is committed to taking action to support it.”