A council’s decision to enforce compulsory breastfeeding courses for male staff has faced severe backlash. Employees, including caretakers, will be required to participate in a two-day awareness course. The objective of the course is to educate participants on the advantages of breastfeeding and how to ensure privacy for mothers. It will also provide insights on bottle feeding and weaning, as reported by The Sun.
Blackburn with Darwen Council in Lancashire, responsible for managing 13 nurseries and family support centers, aims to enhance the care provided to mothers. However, the Campaign for Real Education has condemned the decision as “crazy political correctness.” Chairman Nick Seaton expressed his disbelief, labeling it as “ridiculous and embarrassing.”
Michelle Atkin, the course instructor, clarified that the intention is to prevent situations where mothers are made uncomfortable by inappropriate comments or judgments. The aim is to create a supportive environment for breastfeeding.
It is crucial to recognize that men may feel uncomfortable due to a lack of knowledge on breastfeeding. Rather than dismissing the idea, it should be seen as an opportunity for men to learn and support women in nourishing their children. Let’s stand with these men as they seek to enhance their understanding.
