This inspiring and practical session was delivered in partnership with The Breastfeeding Network and explored why breastfeeding must be recognised and prioritised as a vital public health issue in Wales—and how local authorities and communities can play a powerful role in making this a reality.

Learning outcomes:

• Discover why breastfeeding matters for public health and community wellbeing
• Learn how to set up and sustain a Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme in your area
• Explore real-life examples of successful schemes from across the UK
• Understand the long-term impact of creating breastfeeding-friendly environments

We also heard directly from Powys Teaching Health Board, who shared their journey of implementing a Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme in a Welsh context—achieving over 400 sign-ups in its first year. They offered honest reflections on what worked, the challenges they faced, and the lessons learned along the way.

This session was an opportunity to gain practical insights, be inspired by real stories, and connect with others committed to supporting breastfeeding-friendly communities.