Offaly Breastfeeding Group is shortlisted for national award

Popular Tullamore breastfeeding group Cuidiú Offaly has been shortlisted for ‘Breastfeeding Support Group of the Year’ by Friends of Breastfeeding. The Friends of Breastfeeding Awards are held annually to recognise excellence in supporting and promoting breastfeeding.

The Offaly women face strong competition from four other groups from around Ireland, including fellow midlands group La Leche League Portlaoise. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Dunboyne Castle Hotel on May 11.

Cuidiú Offaly was founded in 2022 by local mum Jasmine Elkhershi and Cuidiú Breastfeeding Counsellor Carolina von Ow from Geashill. The group also works closely with 2023 ‘Lactation Consultant of the Year’ finalist, Patricia Marteinsson (IBCLC).

Nominations highlighted the welcoming atmosphere at the group’s meetings as well as the marked increase in breastfeeding continuation rates in Offaly over the last two years.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have made the shortlist and want to thank all the families who nominated us,” said chairperson Jasmine Elkhershi. “We hope that the more people come to hear about us, the more women we can help to reach their breastfeeding goals.”

Joining in the celebrations is local photographer, Amanda Buzzi, who is a finalist in the “Breastfeeding Friendly Business of the Year” category. Capping off a great showing for the county at this year’s awards, Cuidiú Offaly committee members Carolina von Ow and Fiona Dunkin are celebrating their part in two of the articles nominated for “Breastfeeding Media Feature of the Year”.

Cuidiú Offaly holds two meetings each month in ‘The Space’ in Tullamore Library and in St Mary’s Community Centre on Harbour Street, respectively. Mums and mums-to-be are invited to come along to meet other breastfeeding families and make new friends over tea and cake.

Breastfeeding support is available in person and via telephone from the group’s trained Cuidiú Breastfeeding Counsellors.