NEW mothers are being trained to help their peers in a pioneering initiative designed to promote breast feeding.

Eight women are undergoing a 12-week training course before becoming official peer support mothers.

The training not only includes advice on the health advantages of breast over bottle feeding, but also domestic violence and child protection issues.

Darlington Primary Care Trust midwife Ginny Kirk said breast feeding was better for mothers, babies and society.

"It saves mothers £450 a year, while gastro-enteritis among babies who are bottle-fed costs the NHS £35m annually," she said.

But often new mothers give up during the first few weeks because they encounter problems they do not feel they can discuss with health staff.

Trainee peer mother Debbie Beck said: "There are many things you would ask another mother that you would not bother your health visitor with.

"The course gives you the confidence to talk to the other mums, because we have a lot of experience we can share."

Fellow trainee Lara France said: "I have found the course very interesting and I am sure we will prove really useful to the mums."

The peer mothers are halfway through their course after which they will be awarded a recognised qualification.

When they are fully trained they will be available at the SureStart centre, in McNay Street.

It is also hoped they will be able to take calls by telephone or visit mothers at home.

The scheme is part of the town's bid to achieve baby friendly status, a standard set by the World Health Organisation and Unicef. To achieve that goal it must meet a seven- point plan that proves facilities in the town fit the needs of mothers and that breastfeeding is being promoted.

In another initiative, ante-natal services are also being provided at the McNay Street centre, to provide less clinical surroundings and encourage mothers to keep appointments.

Health visitor Kath Lane said: "Normally mothers visit their GPs, but we can provide a nicer environment and have more time to talk through any issues they may have."

New mothers can also make the most of a special offer thanks to Sadie the Bra Lady, who is offering free fittings, and the care trust, which is providing nursing bras.