Dear Colleague

1. This MEL announces the publication of the above document which includes a policy statement on Breastfeeding and returning to work, for local implementation in the NHS in Scotland.

2. This document has been produced by a sub-group of the Scottish Breastfeeding Group. It is part of a co-ordinated programme of action, to address inequalities of health and to improve children’s health, in line with the "Priorities and Planning Guidance for the NHS in Scotland 1999 to 2002" (NHS MEL (1998) 63) and the agenda of the Scottish Partnership Forum, for the NHS in Scotland.

3. The document describes the current legislation and reiterates the guidelines on breastfeeding and returning to work, sets out the case for its local implementation in the NHS in Scotland, and provides a broad statement about the advantages for mothers, children and employees. A policy statement is also provided.

4. Consultation on the document, has been undertaken with the Human Resources Directorate, including the Family Friendly Policies Sub-group of the Scottish Partnership Forum, the Equality Unit, the Equal Opportunity Unit at the Scottish Executive.

5. The NHS in Scotland should implement the enclosed policy statement in locally in line with current EU, Human Rights Legislation and Health and Safety Guidelines.

6. The document is being sent to the NHS Trusts and Health Boards for local action and to Professional Organisations for information as listed in Annex A.

Yours sincerely

Tel: 0131-244 2310
Fax: 0131-244 2853
_______________________

Further copies from:

 John Wilson
Tel 0131-244-2346
Fax 0131-244 2989
e-mail john.wilson@scotland.gov.uk