Lactation Support Program
- Introduction
- Assessing Need and Interest
- Planning
- Implementation
- Maintenance
- Evaluation
Implementation
Unlike some other programs, there may not be a “first day” or official launch of your lactation support program (LSP), because it may phase in as you develop a policy, design breastfeeding support services, and design your lactation rooms. A launch celebration can be held at any of the points along the way, even if other components have been in place for some time. It’s important to celebrate progress in implementing your LSP and document the lessons you learn along the way. Whether you launch the different components of the LSP together or separately, the following suggestions will help you get the most from your LSP launch(es):
Communication with Stakeholders
During the implementation phase of your LSP, it is important to communicate with stakeholders about what is happening and when portions of the program are “coming online.” This could consist of a series of announcements, as appropriate. Make sure stakeholders know that their input is appreciated at this, and every, step of the program.
Promoting
the LSP
Unlike a new fitness center or many other employee services, there may
not be widespread use of the LSP at any given time. Factors like the number
of pregnant employees, the breastfeeding rate among employees prior to
implementation of the LSP, accommodations for maternity leave, and many
other factors will impact how heavily the LSP is used. Also, the program may
be used more than casual observers realize because it is a very private
experience and not necessarily one that people will discuss casually with
coworkers, even though they use it and appreciate it very much.
For these reasons, promoting the phases or events of your LSP is important.
It helps women in the organization who might be eligible for the program
know of its existence, and may have good public relations value for recruiting and
retaining other employees. So, consider promoting the program not only to
those you see as your target audience, but to the organization in general.
Setting Up the
Launch
Some ideas to consider
include the following:
- Have a ribbon cutting for your new lactation room(s).
- Have someone in senior management give the welcome speech at some Lactation Support Service class or function. Consider finding someone who benefited from or wished that they had access to a similar program at some point in her career.
- Have someone in senior management announce the new policy, following your organization’s procedures for announcing new policies.
- Meet with employees whose work areas are in close proximity to the lactation room(s) prior to the launch and answer any questions they may have. Invite them to the launch.
- Combine the launch with other celebrations such as World Breastfeeding Week (usually the first week in August), if the timing is appropriate.
Next Steps
After launching the LSP component(s), identify and implement changes that resolve “opening day” issues, or issues that arise anytime with the program.
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* Links to non-Federal organizations found at this site are provided solely as a service to our users. These links do not constitute an endorsement of these organizations or their programs by CDC or the Federal Government, and none should be inferred. CDC is not responsible for the content of the individual organization Web pages found at these links.
Page last updated: May 22, 2007
Content Source: Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
