A breastfeeding support group will meet face-to-face in Alfreton this week for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic began.

B.E.A.R.S – which stands for breastfeeding experience, assistance and reassuring support – will host an hour-long session at Alfreton Children’s Centre on Thursday (July 14).

The support group will be led by Zara and Rebecca – volunteers who have been undergone training in breastfeeding support.

The group is for mums and mums to be who are either breastfeeding or who are considering it. However, mums who aren’t breastfeeding but would like to meet other mums are also welcome to attend.

Zara explains: “They can ask any questions or advice, anyone who is struggling or maybe they have a painful feeding experience. We will have a look at them, how baby is latching, try to reassure mums. There will be plenty of toys there so they can bring siblings.

“It’s a group for mums to get together, have a chat, meet other mums. We’re there for advice if they need it.”

B.E.A.R.S also plans to host another session at Alfreton Children’s Centre on Thursday, August 11.

Both sessions will take place between 10.30am and 11.30am.

The sessions free to attend and there is no booking required.

B.E.A.R.S is also looking for more volunteers to help deliver breastfeeding support sessions in Alfreton and elsewhere in Derbyshire.

Volunteers undergo free training with the Breastfeeding Network.

The free training course is 13 weeks long and will start in September.

Applicants must have breastfed for at least four months to qualify for the training course.

The deadline for applications is Sunday, July 17.

You can find out more information about B.E.A.R.S and volunteering by visiting the B.E.A.R.S Breastfeeding Support across Amber Valley Facebook page here.