MP calls for increased awareness of cot deaths
Local MP Tim Farron has called for increased awareness of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and the steps that can be taken to minimise risks for babies. The call comes following 'Safer Sleep Week' last week, a national drive to raise awareness of potentially lifesaving advice that parents can follow.
Although awareness campaigns have led to massive reductions in the rates of SIDS, also often known as cot death, there were still 26 babies who died in the North West in 2014. This shows that more still needs to be done to raise awareness of what can be done to help keep babies safe.
A survey commissioned by charity The Lullaby Trust found that 37% of parents in the North West are unsure of one of the most fundamental steps to reduce the risk of SIDS: sleeping a baby on its back for every sleep. Evidence shows that babies who are slept on their back for every sleep are 6 times less likely to die from SIDS than those who sleep on their front or side.
Tim said: "Every single baby that dies as a result of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is an indescribable tragedy. It is vital that parents have access to advice about steps which can be taken to minimise this risk. Sleeping a baby on its back is a simple step which can help to save lives. Please help to spread the message about Safe Sleeping so that parents across our area can minimise the risk for their babies and help to prevent avoidable deaths."
Safer Sleep Week is The Lullaby Trust's annual national awareness raising campaign, which this year ran from the 13-19th March. The charity is promoting the ABC of safe sleeping: ALWAYS sleep your baby on their BACK in a CLEAR cot or sleep space (free of bumpers, toys and pillows).
For more info about Safe Sleep from the Lullaby Trust go to: https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep