The process of implementing a community-based peer breast-feeding support programme: the Glasgow experience.
OBJECTIVE
to document the process of implementing and maintaining a community-based peer-support programme.


METHODS
a community-based study located in a socio-economically disadvantaged housing estate on the outskirts of Glasgow.


METHODS
pregnant women residing in a target postcode area.


METHODS
a programme of peer counselling and support for breast feeding, comprising antenatal and postnatal home visits over a period of three years.


CONCLUSIONS
peer support may provide an acceptable and appropriate role model for breast-feeding mothers. However, further research is required on other influential factors such as the social network and the impact of this programme on the peer supporter.


CONCLUSIONS
despite a low prevalence of breast feeding, initiating and maintaining peer breast-feeding support was possible. Peer support appeared to be acceptable to mothers and health professionals. Study mothers spoke enthusiastically of the intervention and mentioned increased confidence and self-esteem.
McInnes
R J
RJ
Research Midwife, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Glasgow, UK. rjmilu@clinmed.gla.ac.uk
Stone
D H
DH
D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000523:psychology; D003153:Community Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003376:Counseling / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004739:England; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D009035:Mothers / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology; D010379:Peer Group; D011181:Postnatal Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011203:Poverty / Q000523:psychology; D011247:Pregnancy; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires