KCC Consults on Infant Feeding Services

Infant Feeding Service

Kent County Council

Opens: 17 July 2017
Closes: 3 September 2017

Families across Kent are being asked their views on proposed changes to infant feeding services, including breastfeeding support.

KCC Director of Public Health, Andrew Scott-Clark explained: “The current contract is coming to an end and we have been investigating what service users and providers need – the consultation runs until the beginning of September and considers timely support, more joined up services and more information about the peer support teams with rapid referral to a lactation consultant when needed.

“As part of the development of the Health Visiting model, there have also been discussions with PS Breastfeeding CIC, Early Help and KCHFT. As a result of these conversations, we are consulting on transferring responsibility for community infant feeding support to the Health Visiting Service and are inviting people’s views.”

He adds: “We expect that this proposal will enable all families to access nutrition advice as part of a comprehensive infant health service that links to Children’s Centres and maternity services, making best use of the existing professional skills and resources in the Health Visiting Service.

“There is no intention to take away peer supporters, health visitors will train and supervise and maintain the current numbers. We believe it will also deliver a saving of £404,000 per year without compromising the quality and accessibility of the service.

“Whether you are a past, current or future user of these services, a carer or relative of a service user, a member of the public, an existing or potential provider of services, or another stakeholder, we are keen to hear your views and experiences.”