Mums Banned From Breastfeeding...At A Breastfeeding Conference

Mums Banned From Breastfeeding...At A Breastfeeding Conference
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Mums breastfeeding in public have recently faced criticism from Claridge's staff, pub managers and Nigel Farage, but when looking for somewhere to feed your child in peace, you'd think an event to promote breastfeeding would be a pretty safe bet.

But a group of mothers planning to bring their children to a breastfeeding conference being held next month at Edinburgh's Murrayfield Stadium were initially told that the venue was 'not designed to accommodate breastfeeding'.

The Daily Record reports that officials claimed that they did not expect event attendees to bring children, but after receiving complaints they have now backed down and have said provisions will be made for those who want to breastfeed.

Dr Lesley Taylor, 31, who runs the Facebook group Normalising Public Breastfeeding in Scotland, was among the volunteers and NHS workers invited to the conference.

She said: "A few asked if they could bring a nursing child or requested an aisle seat in case they needed a quick getaway with their baby.

"But they were told the summit could not 'accommodate' breastfeeding. The advert for the event said the Government is trying to break down the barriers to breastfeeding.

"They should be setting an example and being the change they hope to see."

Leslie added that women who emailed officials to check children were welcome, got a reply saying the event was 'mainly aimed at professionals and service providers' and requesting that 'babies and infants are not brought along'.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: "We have arranged for an extension to the baby changing facilities and a quiet area to ensure all who wish to attend can."

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