Safer Sleep

The sudden and unexpected death of an infant is one of the most devastating tragedies that could happen to any family. In spite of substantial reductions in the incidence of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) over the last 30 years, at least 300 infants die suddenly and unexpectedly each year in England and Wales. (NHS, 2019)

The national Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel published a review, in July 2020, of SUDI in families where the children are considered at risk of significant harm. The review identified a number of issues to inform the development of a ‘prevent and protect’ practice model.  Key to this, is everyone working with children and families, knowing, and understanding how they can work together to promote safer sleeping.

Things to do to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome):

• Always place your baby on their back to sleep
• Keep your baby smoke-free during pregnancy and birth
• Breastfeed your baby
• Place your baby to sleep in a seperate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you
• Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in a good condition

Things to avoid when putting your baby to sleep:

• Don’t sleep in the same bed as your baby
• Avoid letting your baby get too hot
• Never sleep on a sofa or in an armchair with your baby