Maternity unit delivers with UNICEF baby friendly initiative

The maternity unit at Southend University Hospital has been re-accredited as baby friendly by UNICEF, following an assessment that showed that best practice standards are in place.

Infant Feeding Advisor at Southend Hospital Julie Newby says: "We want the best for parents and their babies, and working within the framework of Baby Friendly Initiative enhances the parents' experience. We are so proud of the staff on the maternity unit who have worked very hard to embed the UNICEF BFI standards in their practice and deliver excellent infant feeding care and advice to families in our area. We want to say a big thank you to all staff and parents who helped us achieve this award."

The assessment will be conducted again in 2021, helping ensure that the maternity unit consistently maintains high standards of care.