A GROUP of Hereford mums is hoping change attitudes towards breastfeeding in public and offer mutual support to each other on a range of parenting issues.

The Hereford branch of Attachment Parenting UK (APUK) met at the Courtyard in Hereford to celebrate National Breastfeeding Celebration Week in June, with ten families taking part to share experiences and support.

APUK Hereford is a parenting support group open to all parents and expectant parents, it promotes natural and gentle parenting techniques. They offer breastfeeding peer support, support with baby-wearing, the opportunity to try on a variety of slings and carriers, and support with positive discipline.

The group launched in January 2016.

Co-facilitator Rosie Evans who is also a member of the group said: "It can be hard to feel confident about nursing in public at first. This is why it is important for mums to have opportunities to meet other parents and build a support network."

The group meets on the last Monday of each month at The Pavilion, in Castle Green, Hereford, and additional meetings are being held at fortnightly intervals. Information about all events are posted on their Facebook page APUKHereford.

Guest speakers attend the groups to talk about relevant topics - so far they have included a craniosacral therapist, an independent midwife, a doula, a car safety advisor, an allergy specialist, a homeopath, and a hypnobirthing practitioner.

The philosophy behind Attachment Parenting is about 'building strong bonds by responding in a timely and sensitive way; modelling behaviour and connecting with respect and empathy, and relationship quality built on physical and emotional closeness'.

The Courtyard Theatre actively welcomes and supports breastfeeding parents, so it seemed an ideal place to meet.

For more information about attachment parenting, visit attachmentparenting.co.uk