Renfrewshire North and West MSP Natalie Don has praised the rising number of local places supporting breastfeeding.

The politician’s constituency office was one of the first locally to sign up for the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Scheme, which now involves around 120 establishments in the area.

Those taking part in the Scottish Government initiative have stickers outside their premises to indicate that they will make nursing mothers feel welcome and supported and that staff have received training and information.

Ms Don highlighted the scheme as she marked Scottish Breastfeeding Week, which runs until Sunday, June 11.

She told the Gazette: “It has been amazing to see the increasing number of places supporting breastfeeding locally rising and this will make such a huge difference to many women and families.

“I want to thank every organisation who has signed up to the scheme so far as well as Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership who are working hard to increase the take-up of the scheme locally.

“Everyone’s breastfeeding journey is different but for some mothers, a lack of support or understanding can lead to that journey finishing earlier than it may have otherwise.

“Weeks like this are so important to highlight the support that is available for families and ensure that women are able to make an informed choice about how they wish to feed their baby and equally, that they are supported while doing so.”

According to the SNP politician, further training is planned for early learning and childcare centres within the local authority.

Training is also planned for staff at various Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership buildings, meaning there will be even more breastfeeding-friendly options across Renfrewshire.

“I also want to thank the many organisations who work locally to provide invaluable support, both direct and indirect, to breastfeeding mothers, many of whom I have met with over the last few years,” she added.

“The work that you do is invaluable and you are an asset to families at a time when it is needed most.”