Waltham Forest 0–19 Service now UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative accredited
Waltham Forest 0–19 Service has achieved UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) Stage 2 accreditation. The Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) is designed to provide parents with the best possible care to build close and loving relationships with their baby and to feed their baby in ways which will support optimum health and development.
UNICEF assessors had great feedback saying that staff were really eager to talk to them as testament to the pride and care from the workforce in providing excellent care. Assessors highlighted in their report the "enthusiasm and commitment towards providing an effective training programme." That staff are "equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement Baby Friendly standards to support parents to have close and loving relationships with their baby, promote breastfeeding and support mothers with feeding their baby." And that there is a "strong collaboration with the Family Hubs and the commissioned HENRY."
Assessments took place in both October 2025 and May 2026, with 23 different areas assessed. Clarissa Cann, Community Infant Feeding Lead, said: “Staff have shown true commitment in showcasing their skills. They’re providing the best evidence-based practice so that our residents all universally receive the same level of support across the borough. It’s a nerve-wracking experience and some colleagues were selected twice, excelling both times.”
Several colleagues contributed to knitting breasts for the purpose of demonstrating breastfeeding to parents. Eunice Mangundu and Paula Brown in particular worked those knitting needles so that every staff member has what they need to support parents.
Liana Gintautaite, Head of 0-19 Waltham Forest Service, said: “Stage 2 accreditation focuses on staff knowledge. We're so proud that every resident that accesses our service will get equally expert guidance. Work is already underway for Stage 3 so that families can continue to expect better service and better outcomes for their children."
