A WORCESTER baby group has been praised for promoting breastfeeding.

"You can't get fitter than a breastfed nipper" according to Sure Start Worcester, and now the group, which meets at Tudor Way Children's Centre in Dines Green, has been awarded a Certificate of Commitment from UNICEF.

The group believes every new mum has the right to receive clear and impartial advice about breastfeeding and supports mothers however they chose to feed their baby.

Angela Griffiths, Sure Start community midwife, said: "We decided to join forces with UNICEF's Baby Friendly Initiative to increase breastfeeding rates and to improve care for all mothers.

"Breastfeeding protects babies against a wide range of serious illnesses including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections, as well as allergies and diabetes during childhood.

"We also know that breastfeeding reduces the mother's risk of some cancers and mums might be interested to hear that it's easier, cheaper and simply less hassle than bottle feeding."

The Baby Friendly Initiative is a global programme which aims to provide a practical and effective way for the health service to improve care for mothers and their babies.

The Certificate of Commitment recognises that the Worcester group is dedicated to providing that care.

All Sure Start staff are specially trained to teach mums how to breastfeed. They are also taught how to continue breastfeeding after going back to work and told which premises in Worcester are breastfeeding friendly.

Breastfeeding workshops in Worcester are held at The Fairfield Children's Centre, between 1.30pm and 3pm, on the first Wednesday of every month, and at Tudor Way Children's Centre, between 12.30pm and 2pm, on every third Wednesday of the month.

To book a place call Worcester Royal Hospital on 01905 763333 extension 39144 or for detail call the Sure Start office on 01905 753960.

For more general information on Breastfeeding call the National Childbirth Trust Breastfeeding Line on 0870 4448708. The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) offers support in pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.