NCT in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has a higher proportion of children than anywhere else in the UK. In fact, children make up one quarter of Northern Ireland’s population. About 22,000 babies are born in Northern Ireland each year. Every parent in Northern Ireland is welcome to use NCT services, whether or not they’re members.

NCT members and branches

The NCT is active in three main areas of Northern Ireland: Belfast, Antrim and Causeway, and North Down. There are over 140 members, and this number continues to rise. In 2005, NCT membership in Northern Ireland rose by 15%, the highest equal percentage increase in the UK (along with Scotland).

Branches in Northern Ireland support families with informal get-togethers and infant feeding support. We also provide courses during pregnancy and postnatal activities. There are 27 breastfeeding counsellors, antenatal teachers, and students supporting parents in Northern Ireland.

Campaigning

The NCT is active in three main areas of Northern Ireland: Belfast, Antrim and Causeway, and North Down.

We are campaigning for better birth services and have hosted large conferences about making normal birth a reality in Northern Ireland. We actively promote the Breastfeeding Manifesto with government and employers in Northern Ireland.

Achievements

One of the things that we’re most proud of in Northern Ireland is working in partnership with Sure Start to recruit and train new breastfeeding counsellors. Counsellors are women who have breastfed their own children, and who complete university diploma training to help support other women with their feeding choices. Counsellors listen to women and offer information and support, whatever feeding choices they make. 15 new breastfeeding counsellors, supported by Sure Start, are currently completing their training in Northern Ireland.

We’re also proud to have students training to provide antenatal education and postnatal discussion groups.

We’re campaigning for better birth services and have hosted large conferences about making normal birth a reality in Northern Ireland.

The NCT in Northern Ireland offers every expectant family or new parent social activities, support, information, and a chance to volunteer, train and develop. We hope you will join us.