World Breastfeeding Week starts on 1 August 2024, and the theme this year is “closing the gap: breastfeeding support for all”.
Breastfeeding support comes in many forms – from staff welcoming breastfeeding in a local café to helpful advice from a health worker or maternity protections from the government.
We can all help ensure people who breastfeed feel able to, anytime, anywhere.
Anya – support for infant feeding
In Greater Manchester every new parent in Greater Manchester has access to an app called Anya which gives them 24/7 support with infant feeding.
Anya allows people to use a suite of 3D animations to help them successfully breastfeed. Evidence based support is also provided through Anya AI, the app’s virtual supporter, and they can speak to an expert direct if they need more help.
From 18 March 2024, a premium version of the Anya app has been available to parents expecting a child who live in a Greater Manchester and Eastern Cheshire postcode, up to three months after the birth.
This has been funded thanks to the collaboration between the Greater Manchester and Eastern Cheshire Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS) and Anya.
Anya feedback
“I found the content really validating. I wish I’d come across the app sooner.” – parent in Salford.
“Saw me through some incredibly hard days and really helped guide and reassure me with what I was doing” – parent in Wigan Borough.
“Families like the app as they can access it as and when they choose. It is a good tool to support the conversations I have with families” – Early Years Worker in Rochdale.
