Support

                                             

Breastfeeding Support

If you would like support on any aspect of breastfeeding, you are encouraged to call one of our local Breastfeeding Counsellors, who will be able to offer a friendly ear:

Ann Watts    0117 9109125

Ruth Bolgar  0117 924 3849

Fiona Hunter 01454 856025

Or you can call the national NCT Breastfeeding Line 0300 330 0771 (8am-10pm)

Our breastfeeding counsellors undergo a thorough training with the NCT although they are not required to be medically qualified. All counsellors are expected to keep up to date with the latest developments in maternity care and must register with us every year. Their role is to offer support, information, practical skills and resources to help parents make informed choices for themselves and their babies. They do not offer medical advice and parents are asked to take any questions about the medical care of mother and baby to their midwife, health visitor or doctor.

Breast Pump Hire

The NCT operates an electric breast pump hire scheme throughout the UK with the volunteer help of members of the NCT. If you need an electric breast pump for medical or convenience reasons, contact Wendy or Ann on 0844 243 6268.  

Peer Support

We may be able to put you in touch with someone locally who can talk informally with you about an aspect of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. For example, after the topic was raised on our discussion egroup, a group of local mums met up to share their experiences in baby-led weaning. Alternatively you may be faced with a choice over VBAC or elective caesarian and want to talk to someone who's been through the same decision. We have a strong network of local parents, many of whom are willing to share their experiences. We can't promise to be able to help, but will always try!   

Please call us on 0844 243 6268 or email for details.

Valley Cushions

The Valley Cushion provides a comfortable seating platform on either side if its central pressure relieving channel (the 'valley'). It is scientifically designed to relieve the perineal/perianal pain that can occur after childbirth. Each side can be inflated and adjusted individually and the cushion can also be oriented to accommodate varying pelvic outlet widths. Cushions are provided with "breathable" Cooltech disposable covers for maximum hygiene and practicality.

Valley cushions can be hired from our NCT branch agent, Wendy, at a cost of £15 for 5 days, then £2 for each subsequent day. This is an excellent opportunity to make use of a clinically proven pain management product that has a retail value of nearly £150! Most users tend to hire the cushions for between one and two weeks, by which time any pain from stitches and bruising has usually subsided.

To hire a Valley Cushion please contact our volunteer agent, Wendy, at sgnctvalley@googlemail.com