The Evening Times ran an article about figures in a new report showing that women from Lanarkshire experience higher-than-average rates of stillbirth and neonatal deaths than other parts of Scotland. The region recorded the second-highest rate in Scotland with 6.42 deaths per 1,000 births. However it is worth noting that the figure of 7,096 Lanarkshire resident […]
Breastfeeding – know your rights
There have been some high profile media reports of mothers being asked not to breastfeed in public areas or premises, particularly in England.
However, in Scotland, breastfeeding is protected under the Breastfeeding (Scotland) Act.
Susan Short, public health nutritionist (maternal and infant nutrition), said: “This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Breastfeeding Scotland Act. This Act makes it an offence to stop someone breastfeeding in a public place such as bars, buses and shopping centres. Businesses who break the law risk a fine of up to £2,500.
“Unfortunately many people may not be aware of the Act and they may create a fuss which could end up in the media, giving mothers the impression that this happens all the time.
“Mothers can rest assured that this isn’t the case but it is useful for mums to know what their rights are. Also, through the Lanarkshire Breastfeeding Initiative and local breastfeeding support groups, we provide the opportunity for mums to get moral and practical support.”
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