More local mothers are being supported to breastfeed than ever before thanks to staff at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC).
Over the past six years there has been a 14.8% increase in the number of mothers who are still breastfeeding their babies at 6-8 weeks, up from 4,606 in 2019-20 to 5,288 in 2024-25.
The latest figures from Public Health Scotland show that, in the last year alone, 52% of all NHSGGC babies were receiving some breast milk at 6-8 weeks old, a record high and just ahead of the national figure.
Mums are supported to breastfeed by dedicated NHSGGC staff and programmes, such as breastfeeding support groups, where mums are given help and guidance to start breastfeeding their children.
Sarah Clunie a mother from Torrance in East Dunbartonshire said NHSGGC support to breastfeed her twins Skye and Leo played a huge role in her own breastfeeding journey.
Sarah said: “Breastfeeding my twins is one of my biggest achievements in my life so far. I feel proud that my body has provided them with the nutrition and comfort they needed for the best start in life.
“Don’t get me wrong, it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done and I don’t think anyone can comprehend the challenges of breastfeeding until they have lived through it.
“I was fortunate to have an incredible support network. The things that were important to me in the early days were: family who took care of me so that I could focus on taking care of my babies, my local infant feeding lead who gave me hands on support with breastfeeding and my local breastfeeding group where I met other mums who could share in the highs and lows of breastfeeding our babies.
“I feel strongly that all women should be provided with the education, encouragement and support to breastfeed their babies if that is their choice.”
Angela Wallace, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery said: “We are extremely proud to see the improvements highlighted in this year’s Public Health Scotland infant feeding report.
“Ensuring babies receive the very best start in life is at the heart of what we do in NHSGGC, and breastfeeding plays a pivotal role in improving long term health outcomes for babies and their mothers.
“These results are testament to the dedication of our midwives, neonatal and paediatric teams, health visitors, family nurses, support workers and third sector partners. Their combined efforts are making a real difference for families.”
If anyone would like to learn more about breastfeeding, they can ask their midwife, health visitor or family nurse for support or visit www.parentclub.scot for helpful advice and on how to find a support group near them.
The Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212 is also available to provide confidential information and support.
