North West BAPS and Libraries NI collaborate to host BIG Latch On event at Derry's Central Library

North West BAPS (Breastfeeding and Perinatal Support) in collaboration with Libraries NI, has announced that a BIG Latch On event will take place at the Central Library in Derry on Friday.

This event, which is part of a global celebration, aims to increase the visibility of breastfeeding in Derry City and Strabane District Council, an area which has amongst the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world.

The Global BIG Latch On was established by Women’s Health Action Trust in New Zealand in 2005. Since then, the BIG Latch On has grown into a global movement which encourages communities to positively promote breastfeeding – this includes hosting fun events to bring people together to celebrate and normalise breastfeeding.

Derry City and Strabane District Council has consistently had amongst the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world for over 30 years, highlighting the urgent need for more support and advocacy in the region.

North West BAPS, a parent-led initiative which has been calling for better breastfeeding support for new parents, has teamed up with Libraries NI to host this event.

“We are thrilled to partner with Libraries NI for the Global BIG Latch On event at the Central Library in Derry," said Dr. Noella Gormley from North West BAPS.

“Breastfeeding is not only beneficial for babies but also for mothers and families. By coming together for this event, we aim to raise awareness, provide signposting to support, and promote breastfeeding as a normal part of everyday life."

Libraries NI, as a crucial community hub, is committed to supporting the well-being of local residents and providing inclusive spaces for all members of the community. Hosting the Global BIG Latch On event aligns with Libraries NI's mission to promote access to valuable resources and support services.

Maura Craig, Libraries NI Area Manager said: "We are delighted to collaborate with North West BAPS for the Global BIG Latch On event in Derry Central Library.

“Libraries NI is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community environment, and we recognise the importance of initiatives like this in promoting awareness and normalising breastfeeding. Libraries are inclusive spaces for all members of the public, and we look forward to welcoming everyone into the library for this special celebratory event.”

The Global BIG Latch On event at the Derry Central Library will be launched by Mayor Patricia Logue who along with Derry City and Strabane District Council has been very supportive of the North West BAPS in their mission to shine a spotlight on breastfeeding.

Special guest Maeve Leahy who is a Song-sharer and Storyteller with Singing Mamas Derry will be leading attendees through a fun vocal warm-up before sharing a novel adaptation of a well-known classic pop song. Maeve will also be reading from the milk-making adventure storybook "Milky" by Maria Betsworth and Agnes Saccani.

The event is free and there is no need to book but it would help North West BAPS to gauge numbers, if you can register on this eventbrite link.

The event gets underway at 10.30am. Refreshments will be available and the first 50 parents who arrive at the event will receive a North West BAPS Goody Bag