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Motion · S6M-16323 · 3 Feb 2025

North Lanarkshire Breastfeeding Rates Reach 50.7% for the First Time

Lodged by Stephanie Callaghan Standard Motion 23 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament warmly welcomes the news that, according to NHS Lanarkshire, the significant milestone has been achieved in North Lanarkshire, where 50.7% of babies born were breastfed; understands that this marks the first time that the area has surpassed the 50% benchmark, reflecting a growing awareness among new parents of the benefits of breastfeeding; notes that this achievement follows the reported similarly encouraging progress in South Lanarkshire, where 57.8% of babies were breastfed this year, and believes that, together, these statistics represent a positive cultural shift in infant feeding practices across the NHS Lanarkshire area; considers that breastfeeding provides babies with the best possible start in life by delivering essential nutrition, strengthening their immune systems, and reducing the risk of infections, allergies, and chronic conditions later in life, while also fostering a unique bond between mother and baby, promoting emotional wellbeing; attributes this progress to what it believes to be the unwavering dedication of those involved in NHS Lanarkshire maternity services, including those leading outreach programmes, enhancing support for new mothers, and collaborating with local organisations to create breastfeeding-friendly environments; commends NHS Lanarkshire maternity services, in partnership with both North and South Lanarkshire health and social care partnerships, for recently being awarded the prestigious UNICEF Achieving Sustainability Gold Baby Friendly Accreditation, which recognises excellence in supporting breastfeeding and nurturing mother-baby relationships, and wishes NHS Lanarkshire, Lanarkshire families, and the wider healthcare community every success as they continue to build on what it sees as this far-reaching positive impact and commitment to ensuring that every family has access to the invaluable guidance and support required to make informed decisions about infant feeding.

Supporters (23)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.