The Designation Committee

The Designation Committee

The Designation Committee is an external group of clinicians, academics and others who provide quality assurance to the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative accreditation process.

The Committee supports strategic development and consistency across the programme. It takes a collaborative and consultative approach which aims to reflect a true and fair representation of Baby Friendly accredited facilities.

The Designation Committee offers guidance on the evidence base, policy and direction of Baby Friendly activities in order that these continue to match and exceed the standards required of those seeking Baby Friendly accreditation. Acting under delegated authority from UNICEF UK, the Designation Committee will decide based on the evidence whether a unit or Trust has met the requirements of the Baby Friendly Initiative in relation to each of the best practice standards.

Membership of the Committee consists of health professionals and senior leadership working in a range of Baby Friendly accredited facilities and universities, as well as representatives from mother support groups and relevant leaders in the fields of nutrition, early years development, and more.

Members serve a minimum of three years and are supported to gain significant insight into the Baby Friendly programme, including by attending the annual Baby Friendly conference, and where needed, by attending Baby Friendly assessments, courses and more, in order to effectively engage in their role on the Committee. All members are asked to declare any competing interests which may be relevant to their role on the Committee. All Committee members are expected to maintain confidentially regarding all elements of Committee business.

To learn more about the Baby Friendly accreditation process which the Designation Committee oversees, visit our webpages below: