1–7 August 2025 is World Breastfeeding Week and Westmorland and Furness Council is joining the celebration by highlighting the many benefits of breastfeeding and showcasing a packed programme of local support events for families across the area.
This year’s theme celebrates the positive impact breastfeeding has on babies, parents and the planet, with events, advice and drop-ins designed to support families at every stage of their infant feeding journey.
Why breastfeeding matters
Breastfeeding gives babies the best start in life, helping protect against common illnesses, supporting healthy development, and reducing the risk of long-term conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and infections. It’s also a powerful way for parents/carers and babies to bond through close, comforting contact.
While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally – and that’s why support is so important.
Local support throughout the week
Across Westmorland and Furness, parents/carers and parents-to-be are invited to drop in to friendly, expert-led events throughout the week, including:
Friday 1 August
- Breastfeeding Support Group, The Phoenix Centre, Phoenix Way, Windermere, 9.30am – 11.30am
- Infant Feeding Clinic (birth to one month), Penrith Birth Centre, 2pm – 4pm
Monday 4 August
- Infant Feeding Drop-in Group, St Thomas’ Children’s Centre, Kendal West, 1.30pm – 4pm
Tuesday 5 August
- Infant Feeding Peer Support, Eden Family Hub, Old London Road, Penrith, CA11 8ET, 1pm – 2.30pm
Wednesday 6 August
- Antenatal Infant Feeding Workshop, Penrith Birth Centre, CA11 8HX, 1pm – 3pm
- Breastfeeding Positions at Bump Start, Outside In Play Centre, Kendal, 5.45pm – 7.15pm, with guest Ann Bruce
Thursday 7 August
- World Breastfeeding Week Celebration Event, Barrow Library, 10am – 11.30am
- Breastfeeding Support Group, Ghyllside Neighbourhood Centre, Ghyllside School, Gillinggate, Kendal, 9.30am – 11.30am
Friday 8 August
- Infant Feeding Support (up to 1 month old), Penrith Birth Centre, CA11 8HX, 2pm – 4pm
- Postnatal Breastfeeding Support Group, Penrith Birth Centre, 2pm – 4pm
All sessions are free to attend and supported by trained infant feeding teams.
Support in your pocket – 24/7
Earlier this year, Westmorland and Furness Council launched free premium access to the Anya app for all parents/carers and parents-to-be in the area. The app offers round-the-clock, personalised support and guidance on:
- Breastfeeding and bottle feeding
- Pregnancy and parenting
- Mental health and emotional wellbeing
- Infant development
Download Anya for free on the App Store or Google Play, select your area, and unlock tailored support at your fingertips.
New NHS app: Health advice for families
Families in Westmorland and Furness can now access a FREE NHS app developed by Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT) – our 0-19 Healthy Child Programme providers. The app offers trusted, local support for children’s health and development, all in one place.
The app offers local support and advice on topics like antenatal care, child development milestones, infant feeding, perinatal and infant mental health, SEND (special educational needs), plus staying active and school readiness.
Just download the app, select "Westmorland and Furness", and explore trusted advice and services from your local NHS and council teams.