Ashby breastfeeding peer supporter, Claire Robinson, was delighted to accept a cheque from the Leicestershire and Rutland Masonic Charity Association on behalf of local breastfeeding group Magic Milk at a presentation event on 22 June.

Magic Milk covers the North West Leicestershire area, holding weekly breastfeeding groups in Ashby, Measham and Coalville. The groups are run by volunteer breastfeeding peer supporters like Claire, who have been trained by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust’s Healthy Together public health nurses to be able to support new mums through their breastfeeding journeys, and champion breastfeeding as the best choice, where possible, for parents and babies.

The cheque, for £1,500 was presented to Magic Milk at a special event at the Freemasons Hall on London Road last Saturday. Public health nurse (health visitor) Claire Hubbard who works with the Magic Milk group explained: “This incredibly generous donation will make a massive difference for the group, helping them to promote the support they offer to new mums in the area. Some of the money will be used to cover the cost of breast pumps which can be loaned out, helping to provide more flexibility for families.

We know that breastfeeding brings a number of benefits for both mums and babies, but it’s not always straightforward, which is why our wonderful volunteer breastfeeding peer supporters at groups like Magic Milk are such an important resource.”

David Hagger, head of Leicestershire and Rutland Freemasons said: “Charitable giving is one of the fundamental principles of Freemasonry, and we are always delighted to support small, local organisations like Magic Milk who make a real difference to the lives of local families.”