Programmes &
PROJECTS
Our work GROWS
because of your continued support.
Baby & Me BREASTFEEDING
SUPPORT GROUP & WHATSAPP GROUP
The Baby & Me Breastfeeding Support Group (BSG) has been around since 2017. For two (2) years, families met weekly for free sessions where peer counsellors and breastfeeding specialists encouraged mothers to breastfeed within our welcoming space in Hastings. Although we have moved to the virtual space, our sessions have continued to grow.
We meet every 3rd Saturday of the month, for sessions guided by our Breastfeeding Support team. These give mums the chance to interact as well as get evidence-based breastfeeding information and guidance on latching, positioning and weaning onto solid foods. Our in-person sessions are coming back and we can't wait to meet you!
​
Some sessions are led by expert guest speakers who have spoke on topics such as Intimacy After Childbirth, Mommy Nutrition and Fertility, Complementary Feeding and Mental Health. All sessions are free, but your donations to keep the service running are welcome!
Register for a session here!
Contact Us to join our Breastfeeding Support WhatsApp Group.
Contact Us if you need one-on-one support with breastfeeding!
Peer SUPPORT TRAINING
Globally, only 41% of infants aged 0-6 months are exclusively breastfed (EBF) and in Barbados, the 2012 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, found an EBF rate of 19.7%. However, having peer supporters in the community has been scientifically proven to improve a mother’s confidence and knowledge of breastfeeding. These programmes allow more mums to feel supported and empowered to breastfeed exclusively and for longer.
Launching in 2022, our Peer Support Training (PST) Programme will be the first in Barbados to train, and deploy a cohort of peer supporters to support mothers with breastfeeding. In Phase I, the training will be delivered by an expert team of healthcare professionals and lactation consultants. While in Phase II, successful peer supporters will support the community. This may include one-to-one breastfeeding support as well as group sessions and educational forums on behalf of BCNF to educate the community on the benefits of breastfeeding and breastmilk.
For more information:
Contact the Project Lead for Peer Support at pst.bcnf@gmail.com.
If you are interested in being a part of this high-impact project as a BCNF Peer Support counsellor, then sign up here!
World BREASTFEEDING WEEK
World Breastfeeding World (WBW), held in August annually, focuses on how breastfeeding contributes to the survival, health, well-being and the importance of protecting breastfeeding worldwide. In Barbados, less than 20% of infants are exclusively breastfed for up to 6 months.
The BCNF participates in an annual awareness-building initiative World Breastfeeding Week hosted by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA). In 2021, we celebrated the theme “Protect Breastfeeding - A Shared Responsibility” with the help of our volunteers, Board, and partners.
From Instagram Lives and interactive sessions with the expectant mothers at the QEH to radio appearances and advocating for breastfeeding in the workplace, the BCNF continues to spread awareness of the importance of breastfeeding across Barbados.
projects OVER THE YEARS
-
Ongoing community outreach and education on the benefits of breastfeeding and breastmilk to women and infants, in association with family groups such as Unborn Justice and Barbados Family Planning Association.
-
Public appearances on local Radio (Slam 101.1FM, etc.) and television (Mornin’ Barbados, My Ten to 12) to raise awareness of the Foundation and our work.
-
Educational social media content on our Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn platforms.
-
World Breastfeeding Week Prize draws to fundraise while raising awareness of the importance of breastfeeding.
-
The BCNF was integral in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s recertification for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in December 2017. As a member of the National Breastfeeding Committee, the Foundation contributed to breastfeeding policy, by supporting the amendment of the previously drafted 1999 National Breastfeeding Policy.
-
Breastfeeding Workplace Policy Guidance was developed through a grant facilitated by the Healthy Caribbean Coalition and provided by the Caribbean Development Bank (currently undergoing updates.)
​
SUPPORT BCNF
DONATE
If you would like to support us in protecting and promoting breastfeeding and evidence-based child nutrition, you can donate to us via bank transfer. We appreciate your kind donations of any amount!
Donations can be sent Online to our Account at:
Scotiabank
Branch: Warrens
Account Type: Chequing
Transit number: 36285000
Account number: 460199 Reference: Donation to the BCNF
VOLUNTEER
The BCNF is a completely volunteer-run nonprofit. We are happy to welcome keen volunteers to support our advocacy for breastfeeding!
If you'd like to volunteer simply fill out the form below:
PARTNER
We’re looking for Partners to fund our programmes and keep them accessible for all families in Barbados!
​
Much of our funding comes from donations and grants for projects and we receive no government funding for the work we do, which is why we love when awesome people like you choose to help out!
Be a part of the BCNF family and gain the perks while fulfilling your Corporate Social Responsibility. Contact Us Today!