Keeping babies safer

Thursday, 11 September 2025

A photo of a baby in a cot

Once baby is born, the first year of life is crucial. Safer Sleep messages are still being ignored by some families. A baby’s airway is very delicate and needs to be kept open and clear.

Parents can help with this by not letting babies sleep in anything that keeps them in a seated or inclined position such as a bouncy chair, baby hammock, baby swing, baby beanbag or sleep positioner. Sleeping in a sitting position (including when the baby is a bit congested with cold-like symptoms) can fold the baby’s airway and stop them breathing. More details and advice on protecting baby’s airway can be found at Lullaby Trust.

 safe sleep graphic

 

Foetal Acohol Spectrum

Remember: Foetal Alcohol Spectrum can happen when alcohol in the mother’s blood passes to her baby through the placenta. Alcohol can damage baby’s brain and body and stop them from developing normally in the womb. No alcohol is the best option.

 

RSV vaccine advice

In pregnancy, your baby is reliant on you for everything. It is important to keep your baby as healthy as you can by eating a healthy diet, avoiding all alcohol, drugs and smoking. Children who have been well cared for during the mother’s pregnancy get the best possible start in life. Vaccinations can help to protect your baby during and after pregnancy.

 

 rsv vaccine

 

The Government has launched the Best Start in Life website, previously Childcare Choices.

This is a hub for parents and carers to find trusted advice and support from pregnancy through early years and beyond, including transitioning to solid foods, wraparound childcare, learning to talk and getting ready to start school. Visit https://www.beststartinlife.gov.uk/ for more information.

 

The latest advice from the ERSCP Keeping Babies Safe Group and CDOP:

Further information can be found on the ERSCP website: Vulnerabilities of Babies and Children

Advice for Parents/ Carers: New Baby Young Child Signposts to Support

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