Family support points expand in Rokiškis to help parents with young children

Public institutions in Rokiškis are introducing dedicated “family support points” to provide parents with young children a comfortable space to rest, feed, or change their baby without obligation, Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT) reports.

Parents often face unexpected situations while out with small children, particularly when far from home. “Most often, we need a place to feed the baby, change a diaper, or sometimes just for the mother to catch her breath,” said Rokiškis resident Vilma Navikė. “Since we live a little outside the city, if we go for a walk downtown, we have to plan our route—not where we want to go, but where it’s easier to quickly find a place to stop.”

The new initiative aims to remove barriers by creating clearly marked spaces in public buildings where parents can freely attend to their child’s needs. “A safe place where you can calm down without feeling obligated to become a customer,” explained Lina Valotkienė, chair of the Rokiškis Municipality Family Council. “Often, we hesitate: ‘Do I need to buy something at this café?’ But here, you’re accepted as you are—you can ask and use the space.”

Institutions setting up these points are not bound by strict requirements. “The conditions are very basic: a place to sit, a table for feeding, access to a restroom if possible, and maybe some play equipment—but there are no mandatory rules,” Valotkienė added.

The first support point was established in the Rokiškis Municipality building, but the idea is spreading quickly. “Institutions are showing strong interest—cultural centres joined first, followed by educational ones, and now we’re hearing from local elders’ councils,” said Birutė Šlikienė, a municipality representative. “We hope businesses will also participate over time.”

Aušra Gudgalienė, director of the Rokiškis Regional Museum—which already welcomed families—said the visible signage now reassures parents. “The symbol signals that this is a place where you can feel safe and confident, without having to ask, ‘May I come in?’ You see the sign, recognise it, and can enter freely.”

Residents are also encouraged to set up similar spaces in their homes or businesses to expand the network.