Businesses are being asked to participate in a programme designed to support breastfeeding mothers and their babies.

The Ministry of Health put out the call as part of its Breastfeeding Friendly Designation Campaign, which recognises businesses that provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for mothers who choose to breastfeed.

There are already eight restaurants and cafés on the list: Rock Island Coffee, Brew, Pickled Onion, The Botanist Café and Garden Lounge, Cottage Café and Bistro, La Trattoria, Rustico Restaurant and Pizzeria, and Latte’s.

Latte’s, a coffee shop that opened in Paget in November, said it has always provided a welcoming environment for all of its customers.

Royce Bulatao, the manager, said: “We introduced this mainly because many of our customers are moms. We have moms groups come in at 8am and at 9am, and it’s an opportunity for them to do whatever they have to do with their kids and still socialise.

“A lady from the programme contacted us about signing up and I told her we already have it.

“We are a new coffee shop; we are still working out how to support and care for all of our customers.

“This year we are planning to have diaper-changing equipment in the restrooms.”

Peter Kyle, the manager of The Botanist, at the Botanical Gardens in Paget, said: “We believe you shouldn’t have to tiptoe around when your little one’s hungry — why not feed them wherever you like?

“At The Botanist, they can kick back in a cosy corner and sip on a refreshing mocktail or coffee. Every café should be this family-friendly. Cheers to that.”

The Bermuda National Breastfeeding Committee, which comprises representatives from the Department of Health, the hospital, private paediatricians and community members, is introducing the campaign.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, urged businesses to get involved.

She said: “Ensuring that every mother, regardless of socioeconomic status or race, receives the encouragement and resources necessary to breastfeed successfully is absolutely essential.

“Support should transcend beyond healthcare environments to encompass community spaces, family members, businesses and workplaces.

“This might mean educating staff about the importance of welcoming breastfeeding families, ensuring discrimination is not tolerated, or allowing flexible seating arrangements or time limits to breastfeeding mothers and babies.

“While private spaces are preferred or helpful for some mothers, recognising that breastfeeding mothers do not need to hide is an important part of this messaging.

“We are grateful to the businesses leading the way in creating welcoming environments for breastfeeding mothers. Your support makes a tremendous difference and I encourage others to follow suit. Providing welcoming, comfortable areas for breastfeeding is a wonderful step towards a more inclusive and supportive community.”

The campaign highlights that breastfeeding provides “unparalleled” health benefits for infants and mothers, fostering a strong bond while reducing the risk of various health conditions.

Chelsea Walker, a mother of three, posted on social media that she welcomes the campaign, as she initially struggled to find confidence to breastfeed in public.

She wrote: “When I was a first-time mom, I was definitely nervous to breastfeed my daughter in public. I definitely had the sheet covering and it was a struggle.

“New moms need to be supported. Mothers today do not have the support from a village like they did in the past. So thank you, Government, for taking a step.”

To participate in the campaign, businesses must adhere to a set of criteria.

By meeting these criteria, businesses will receive a special designation, including a sticker to display and inclusion in the campaign’s list of breastfeeding-friendly establishments.

A sign-up form is available on the www.gov.bm website.