Safeguarding babies

In October 2018 the Children’s Commissioner Report 'A Crying Shame' highlights why babies within this age group are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on their caregivers to keep them safe and happy. Babies under 1 are vulnerable and not able to speak for themselves, and unlike older children, may not attend universal services such as education where adults outside the family have a chance to see them. Unfortunately babies are disproportionately represented in safeguarding learning reviews with instances of death and serious injuries.

In 2020 the chief inspector of Ofsted at the Association of Directors of Children Services Conference highlighted there had been a 20% rise in babies either harmed or killed during the first national lockdown and 40% of the 300 incidents reported involved infants (not just under 1’s). Ofsted also identified a toxic mix of isolation, poverty and mental illness as key factors causing the rise in these incidents.

The National Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel have published reviews relating to infants and babies under 1 

• Out of routine
• "The Myth of Invisible Men"
• Bruising in non-mobile infants

Safe Sleep

There is evidence from many long term studies of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) that some of the infant deaths associated with bed-sharing, co-sleeping and other factors associated with SIDS can be prevented.

Safe sleep has been highlighted as a key concern in recent child safeguarding reviews. The good news is that following safer sleep advice can help prevent these tragedies.

Safer sleep advice should be followed for all sleep times, day and night.

What you can do:

• Keep your baby smoke-free during pregnancy and after birth.
• Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
• Use a cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for the first 6 months.
• Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition.
• Breastfeed if you can.

What to avoid:

• Never let your baby sleep on a sofa or armchair, even with someone else.
• Avoid overheating – ideal room temperature is 16–20°C.
• Keep your baby’s face and head uncovered during sleep.
• Don’t use loose bedding, pillows, cushions, or beanbags.
• Avoid placing soft toys in the cot or Moses basket.
• Don’t let your baby sleep in a car seat outside of travel.

For more information and support, visit The Lullaby Trust – a national charity offering expert advice on safer sleep and support for families

• The Lullaby Trust
• Reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Infant Crying - How to cope 

ICON is a campaign which aims to help parents and carers to cope with a crying baby.

A baby’s cry can be upsetting and frustrating. It is designed to get your attention and you may be worried that something is wrong with your baby.

Not every baby is easy to calm but that doesn’t mean you are doing anything wrong. Don’t get angry with your baby or yourself. Instead, put your baby in a safe place and walk away so that you can calm yourself down by doing something that takes your mind off the crying.

For more information click here

7MB - ICON