Nine UK cities have been given a share of the money to become ‘healthy towns’ under plans by ministers to combat obesity.
Other towns are engaging in schemes related to cycling, walking, healthy eating and green spaces as part of the wider public health drive being rolled out in England.
Not only does breastfeeding reduce the risk of babies developing many illnesses, it also decreases disease later in life, as well as protecting the mother’s health.
Breastfed babies have better neurological development and reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome, urinary tract infections and cardiovascular disease later in life.
This lower incidence of illness associated with higher breastfeeding rates could also lead to significant cost savings for the UK, in the treatment of illnesses and a reduction in the use of formulas.
While UK breastfeeding rates are increasing they are still among the lowest in Europe.
At birth, only 76 per cent of British babies are breastfed and this figure diminishes as the baby gets older. Ellie Brown from Sheffield City Council said: "Women will be more likely to breastfeed in places where they feel comfortable.
"The main drive is to improve people’s health to ensure they lead happy, longer lives."
Just one in four babies are still receiving breast milk at six months, despite recommendations that babies need it for the first six months of life. The Government is planning more healthy initiatives next year.
Georgia Gregory
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