RCM calls for return of Infant Feeding Survey responding to child health report

on 22 January 2019 Breastfeeding Public Health

Today the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has published a new report - State of Child Health: Two Years On.Commenting on the report, Clare Livingstone, Professional Advisor at the Royal College of Midwives, said: "This is an important report and shows that whilst there has been progress, there is a need for more and sustained investment in the health of children.

"One of the key ways to improve the health of children is to improve the health of women before and during pregnancy, and their care during the pregnancy and after.

"This is why we need more investment in our maternity services and a reversal of the cuts to public health budgets affecting services such as smoking cessation.

"We also strongly support the report's call for the return of the Infant Feeding Survey. This information is vital in tackling England’s low breastfeeding rates, to monitor the efficacy of support and target resources where they are most needed.

"Breastfeeding can make a significant difference to the health of babies and to their health into the future. We should be doing all we can to promote and support it and stopping the survey was a retrograde step.”

Note to editors

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.

 

 

ENDS