Wakefield District

Who we are?

Little Angels are a team of local mums who are trained in breastfeeding support and have previous volunteer peer support experience in their local communities. We work alongside midwives and health visitors to offer support and information to all breastfeeding mothers in the Wakefield District. Support is available to mothers and their families 7 days a week 24 hours a day. This is achieved through working in partnership with the NHS Mid Yorkshire Trust, Wakefield District PCT, Health professionals, Volunteer Peer Supporters and Children’s Centres to provide a seamless approach using the UNICEF baby friendly 7 steps.

What we do?

• Antenatal Support providing information about the benefits of breastfeeding
  

  Expectant mums are welcome to visit a local breastfeeding group to receive information and support with their decision to breastfeed. The 24 hour helpline is also available to offer antenatal and postnatal support and information to mums over the telephone.

• Hospital support on Post-Natal Ward 10 at Pontefract General Infirmary

  A Little Angel supporter is available in the hospital to provide support from 9am-2pm, 7 days a week 365 days a year. They can help with breastfeeding concerns, including positioning & attachment and expressing. We support all mums on the ward, regardless of where they live and also offer a daily information session about breastfeeding on the post-natal ward.

• One to One home visits

  Little Angels cover their local community by offering one-to-one support for all mums registered with a GP within the Wakefield PCT.  Once discharged mums can expect a visit within 48 hours, and a second visit within 10 days. Mums can expect at least two visits, weekly telephone contact up to six weeks and additional visits if necessary.

• 24 hour Helpline

  The helpline is available for all mums regardless of their location and is manned on a voluntary basis by experienced peer supporters. The line is open 7 days a week 365 days a year. We are here to help with any concerns big or small.

• Work closely with local children’s centres and voluntary breastfeeding support groups

  Weekly support groups run in the communities where you can join other mums and speak with a breastfeeding peer supporter. Some groups even offer free nursing bra fittings.
  
  We have a close relationship with Children’s Centres and often we work alongside the Midwife Drop-in to offer support at the same time and location. We in return sign post mums to the Children’s Centres so they make use of their services such as; Baby Clinics, Breast Pump Loans, Toy and Book Libraries and the many Parent and Toddler Groups.

• Working for us
  

  Volunteering opportunities are available in all capacities to support Little Angels.  If you would like to support others in your community with their breastfeeding experiences, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator on the office number below. You will gain experience, knowledge and be offered training which are stepping stones for when employment positions become available; You will be welcomed to apply.

• Useful Links
  

  http://www.breastfeeding-support.co.uk