Island Celebrates Sustainable Breastfeeding with Community Picnic

1–7 August marks World Breastfeeding Week, and this year’s theme — “Invest in breastfeeding, invest in the future” — highlights the importance of creating environments that empower families to breastfeed for as long as they choose — whether that’s weeks, months, or years. It’s about sustainable breastfeeding: ensuring that families have the support, information, and confidence to meet their own feeding goals.

To celebrate and support this message, the Isle of Wight Council, the Breastfeeding Network, Health Visiting and Maternity Services are inviting families to a special “Picnic in the Park” at Victoria Recreation Ground, Newport PO30 5AH on Tuesday 5 August between 1:00–3:00pm.

This free, family-friendly event is open to all and offers a relaxed and welcoming space to meet other parents, connect with local infant feeding supporters, and celebrate breastfeeding journeys across the Island. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket and their own food and drink. There will be:

In the event of rain, the picnic will move indoors to The Pavilion at the same location.

Supporting Sustainable Breastfeeding

Sustainable breastfeeding means ensuring that families have the support, information, and environment they need to continue breastfeeding for as long as they wish. Every journey is different, and every parent deserves to feel confident and supported.

The Isle of Wight Council  is committed to helping families breastfeed for as long as they choose by offering a wide range of support:

Local infant feeding advice and services: iow.gov.uk/infantfeeding

Breastfeeding Friendly Venues across the Island: familyinfohub.iow.gov.uk/breastfeedingfriendly

The Anya app, offering 24/7 access to expert advice and virtual support: anya.health/isleofwight

“Breastfeeding is a personal journey, and our role as a community is to ensure that every parent feels supported to continue for as long as they choose,” said Simon Bryant, the Isle of Wight’s Director of Public Health. “This event is a celebration of that support and the strength of our local community.”

All families and professionals are welcome to attend the picnic and join in celebrating World Breastfeeding Week.