Snowy Monaro Access Breastfeeding Education Live Sessions

These places were made possible thanks to funding from Council and will be delivered by volunteers from the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA).

“Pregnant women in the Snowy Monaro area have previously had to travel either to Canberra or Wagga Wagga to access Breastfeeding Education Classes run by the ABA,” Karen Clarke, Group Leader Snowy Monaro Australian Breastfeeding Association said.

“These classes, like all antenatal classes, have been closed due to social distancing restrictions.

“This new partnership will mean women are able to access breastfeeding education from the comfort of their own home. They will also have 12 months of follow up support from the Association via their membership.”

Margaret Grove, ABA President, says the project will support parents throughout the Snowy Monaro.

“A lot of expectant parents have never held a baby, let alone seen one being breastfed. Many have missed out on traditional learning through the generations. That’s why it’s so important that they have access to the kind of prenatal education that ABA is providing,“ Margaret said.

“Online sessions are different from face-to-face interaction but they have many benefits. Many enjoy attending Breastfeeding Education Live sessions from the comfort of their own home. They are able to ask questions and interact with other expectant parents in a small group.”

“The aim is to empower expectant parents and give them the confidence they need to breastfeed their baby.”

Arianwen Harris, Co-Group Leader Canberra ABA Group, is encouraging pregnant women to join this program.

We know rural and regional mums can find it harder to access local support, travel time is often a barrier,” Arianwen said.

“We are running a similar project and have found 80% of women signing up have had trouble accessing antenatal education - and they are in a capital city.

“Breastfeeding is a useful tool for emergency preparedness as it does not require water electricity or other equipment, reducing the need for breastfeeding families to rely on services during emergencies.

“As we start looking ahead to this year’s bushfire season, many families will be wanting to prepare their bushfire plans earlier, especially those welcoming babies soon.”

Pregnant women wishing to be part of the project should complete the following short survey, link below.

For interviews, please contact Arianwen 0498 679 314 [email protected]