HSE to hold event in Roscommon to mark National Breastfeeding Week

This year’s HSE National Breastfeeding Week, which takes place from 1 - 7 October is themed ‘Every step forward: Strengthening support for babies and families’, highlighting the important role that timely information and expert support play in helping families on their breastfeeding journey.

Nationally, more than six in 10 babies in Ireland are now breastfed at birth. The percentage of babies breastfed at birth increased from 63.8% in 2019 to 65.8% in 2025. Breastfeeding rates have also increased beyond the early weeks of life, with 51.5% of three-month-old babies breastfed, compared with 35.4% in 2015.

The HSE has expanded breastfeeding supports in recent years through the recruitment of specialist lactation midwives and nurses, community breastfeeding support groups, post-natal hubs and enhanced breastfeeding training for healthcare staff. There are now 60 specialist infant feeding staff nationwide, while 805 healthcare professionals have completed the new National Infant Feeding Education Programme over the past two years.

To mark National Breastfeeding Week in Roscommon, there will be a celebration held in the Roscommon Arts Centre on the 6 October from 11am until 1pm. This event that will celebrate breastfeeding mums and their babies will include a free hummingbird session. The session will start with some music and song for parents and children. Breastfeeding Friendly Roscommon will also be launching a QR code that will have all the information needed to find local supports for your breastfeeding journey. Local IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) Ciara Bohan will be present to provide support and advice to any new or expecting mums and families at the event. Bumps and babies all welcome to come along and refreshments are also available at the event.

Ciara Bohan IBCLC said, “National Breastfeeding Week is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate breastfeeding mums and their babies, while also recognising the importance of support and encouragement for families at every stage of their journey. We are delighted to mark the week here in Roscommon with an event that brings families together in a welcoming and supportive environment.

“Whether someone is expecting their first baby, breastfeeding for the first time, or looking for additional support, we want families to know that help is available locally. The launch of the new Breastfeeding Friendly Roscommon QR code will make it easier for families to find information and connect with local supports when they need them. We look forward to welcoming mums, babies, bumps and families to Roscommon Arts Centre on 6 October for a morning of music, connection, advice and celebration.”

This local event forms part of the wider HSE National Breastfeeding Week campaign, which highlights continued improvements in breastfeeding rates and the expansion of breastfeeding supports available to families.