Dorset Launches Infant Feeding and Child Nutrition Strategy

The Pan Dorset Infant Feeding and Child Nutrition Strategy has been officially launched, setting out an ambitious plan to support families in making informed nutritional choices for their children from birth to age five. This comprehensive strategy is built on national and international evidence, combining essential practices such as Best Start in Life and the UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI). 

Rachel Partridge, Deputy Director of Public Health for Dorset and BCP Councils, said "Dorset's new Infant Feeding and Child Nutrition Strategy highlights the importance of good nutrition during the first 5 years of life for a child’s healthy development. The strategy highlights how organisations in Dorset are committed to work together with families to provide information, knowledge and support needed to promote healthy eating habits from infancy through to early childhood. This includes key themes of breastfeeding, weaning and nutritional needs at each developmental stage.

“This is a clear way in which we can demonstrate our commitment and enthusiasm for working to support families in the important area of healthy eating and nutrition to give the best start in life for all our children in BCP Council and Dorset Council areas."

Hannah Leonard, Deputy Director of Maternity and Perinatal Services, Nursing and Quality, NHS Dorset ICB said “It is important that parents from all communities are supported to give infants the best start in life, this coproduced strategy champions inclusivity for all and supports families to get the help and support they need to make an informed choice when it comes to feeding.

“I would like to thank all the partners for their involvement in this initiative which will be a huge help to many parents and their children across Dorset.”

Our pan-Dorset commitment to excellence

The development of the Pan Dorset Infant Feeding and Child Nutrition Strategy reflects a strong commitment to improving infant feeding support and early childhood nutrition. By working together with local services, professionals, and partner organisations, this strategy aims to provide the best possible start in life for every child in Dorset.