A Jersey charity has invested in new equipment and opened a dedicated clinic to help more families overcome breastfeeding challenges, aiming to remove financial barriers and extend the support available to mothers across the island.
Family Nursing and Home Care has purchased ten hospital-grade breast pumps along with single-use pump kits, and has added a specialist maternity recliner chair to a new breastfeeding and infant feeding clinic at its Pathways centre. The charity says these additions will make it easier for mothers to access the help they need, whether they are dealing with feeding difficulties, premature births, delayed milk supply, or other challenges.
The announcement comes as the charity marks World Breastfeeding Week, which runs until 7 August. Debra Hennessy, from Family Nursing and Home Care, described the week as “an opportunity to celebrate breastfeeding and recognise the importance of ensuring families have access to the support they need.”
New equipment to support more mothers
The purchase of the hospital-grade breast pumps and single-use kits was funded by the Jersey Community Foundation. These pumps are designed for frequent, effective milk expression, which can be crucial for mothers of premature babies or those experiencing low milk supply. The single-use kits ensure hygiene and safety for each mother, making the service practical for a wider range of families.
The charity explained that the initiative and new equipment would “improve access to breastfeeding support, remove financial barriers for families, and help mothers across the island continue breastfeeding for longer if they choose to do so.” This is particularly significant because hospital-grade pumps are often expensive to hire or buy, putting them out of reach for some families. By providing them through the clinic, the charity hopes to level the playing field.
Funding from community partners
In addition to the pumps, the Coop Community Fund helped finance the purchase of the specialist maternity recliner chair. This chair is designed to provide comfortable and ergonomic positioning for mothers during breastfeeding sessions, which can help with latch and reduce physical strain. The chair is now in place at the new Pathways clinic, which is located in the east of the island.
New clinic improves access in the east
The Pathways clinic is a new location for breastfeeding and infant feeding support, complementing existing services. By being situated in the east, it aims to improve accessibility for families who previously had to travel further for help. The charity says this additional location is a key step in ensuring that all families, regardless of where they live, can access timely and effective support.
The clinic will support up to 160 mothers, according to the charity. This number reflects the scale of need and the commitment to making a real difference in the community. The clinic will offer one-on-one consultations, practical guidance, and emotional support, all delivered by trained staff.
Addressing common breastfeeding challenges
Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience, but it is not always easy. Many mothers encounter difficulties such as painful latch, low milk supply, or concerns about their baby’s weight gain. The new equipment and clinic are designed to address these issues head-on, providing practical solutions and professional reassurance.
For mothers of premature babies, the ability to express milk effectively is vital. Hospital-grade pumps are more powerful and efficient than standard home pumps, which can make a significant difference in establishing and maintaining milk supply. The single-use kits also reduce the risk of infection, which is especially important for vulnerable newborns.
Removing financial barriers
One of the biggest obstacles to breastfeeding support is cost. Hiring a hospital-grade pump can be expensive, and not all families can afford it. By offering these pumps through the clinic, the charity is removing that financial barrier, ensuring that every mother who needs support can get it, regardless of her income.
The charity’s approach reflects a broader understanding that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice but a public health issue. Supporting mothers to breastfeed for longer has benefits for both maternal and infant health, including reduced risk of certain infections and chronic conditions.
Celebrating World Breastfeeding Week
World Breastfeeding Week is an annual event that highlights the importance of breastfeeding and the need for supportive environments. This year’s theme focuses on making breastfeeding easier for all families, and the charity’s new initiatives align perfectly with that goal.
Debra Hennessy emphasised the importance of celebration and recognition. “World Breastfeeding Week is an opportunity to celebrate breastfeeding and recognise the importance of ensuring families have access to the support they need,” she said. The charity’s investment in new equipment and the new clinic is a tangible demonstration of that commitment.
A community effort
The success of these initiatives is due in part to the generosity of local organisations. The Jersey Community Foundation and the Coop Community Fund have both played crucial roles in funding the new equipment. Their support reflects a community-wide commitment to improving maternal and infant health.
The charity also thanked the families who use their services, noting that their feedback has been invaluable in shaping the support offered. As the clinic becomes established, the charity hopes to continue expanding its services and reaching even more families.
Looking ahead
With the new pumps, chair, and clinic in place, the charity is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on breastfeeding rates in Jersey. The focus on removing barriers and providing high-quality equipment is a model that could be replicated elsewhere.
For mothers who are struggling with breastfeeding, the message is clear: help is available, and you are not alone. The new initiatives are designed to provide practical, compassionate support that can make all the difference.
As World Breastfeeding Week draws attention to the importance of breastfeeding, the charity’s actions speak louder than words. By investing in the right tools and creating accessible services, they are helping to ensure that every mother who wants to breastfeed can do so with confidence.
