Juggling work with breastfeeding

Reniet Sanders and baby Peter at work together.

BREASTFEEDING and working may not seem compatible, but many women manage it successfully; and this will the topic for the Tenterfield-Granite Belt Group of the Australian Breastfeeding Association’s meeting on 28 July at the Stanthorpe Baptist Church Hall.
The meeting will cover the steps to take towards combining breastfeeding and work, such as how to discuss the return to work with an employer, the practicalities of returning to work and expressing and storing breastmilk.
“There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and hear from other mums about their experiences,” Breastfeeding Counsellor Leah Furness said.
Local mum, Reniet Sanders has taken her baby, Peter, to work with her since he was quite young. “Because I work for myself I knew Peter would be coming to work with me,” Reniet explained.
“It made returning to work so much easier knowing that as long as I was there he could be fed.”
Many mothers successfully combine work and breastfeeding according to Leah, and legislation exists in most states to guarantee that no employer may discriminate against individuals with family responsibilities.
She said unfortunately breastfeeding still tended to be left up to the woman to discuss with her employer on an individual basis.
All mothers, fathers, children, pregnant women and family members are invited to attend the get-together on Thursday 28 July, at the Stanthorpe Baptist Church Hall, corner Railway and Hillcrest streets, Stanthorpe, at 9.30am. Interested parties do not need to be breastfeeding to attend.
A free information sheet for employees and employers, containing information about the importance of breastfeeding and requirements of breastfeeding employees, is available from the local ABA group, and will be available for mums at the meeting.
For more information about returning to work, visit the Australian Breastfeeding Association Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace website: www.breastfeeding.asn.au/workplace/.
For inquiries about the meeting or for confidential counselling, contact Leah on 0409 001 634. Breastfeeding information, counselling and general inquiries can also be accessed via the 24-hour Breastfeeding Helpline on 1800 MUM 2 MUM/1800 686 268 or at the Australian Breastfeeding Association website: www.breastfeeding.asn.au.