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Top recognition for breastfeeding support

27/10/2016

The University of Wolverhampton has received top recognition for the training provided to health visiting students to encourage mothers to breastfeed.

Following a rigorous assessment process, the University achieved stage 2 accreditation as part of the Baby Friendly Initiative, a worldwide programme of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF.

The Postgraduate Diploma and BSc (Hons) Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (Health Visiting) courses were praised for their extremely positive approach to implementing the aims of the Baby Friendly Initiative.

unicef-accreditation

The Baby Friendly Initiative was established in 1992 to encourage maternity hospitals worldwide to implement the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. The UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative was later extended to include community healthcare services and university programmes for midwifery and health visiting.

Feedback from the UNICEF assessors stated the University of Wolverhampton had consistently displayed enthusiasm and commitment towards implementing the Baby Friendly learning outcomes and providing an effective training programme.

Dr Sarah Sherwin, Head of Community Practice said: “The knowledge, skills and sensitivity demonstrated by the majority of the students was of an extremely high standard, with a 100% being scored in a number of key areas. Overall the assessment revealed the students, who come to the University of Wolverhampton from NHS Trusts around the West Midlands, are equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement Baby Friendly standards around close and loving relationships, promoting breastfeeding and supporting mothers with feeding."

Paul Reynolds, Health Visiting Couse Leader, added: “The team are delighted with the superb result of this assessment, which was due to the hard work of the students and their practice teachers.”

More information:
BSc (Hons) Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (Health Visiting) (Top-up)

Postgraduate Diploma Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (Health Visiting)

Further information

Caption: Members of the health visiting team (l-r): Michelle Moore, Faith Muir, Pauline Lim and Paul Reynolds

For more information please contact the Media Relations Office on 01902 32 2736 or 01902 518647.

For more information please contact the Corporate Communications Team.

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