Parents in Cornwall urged to make sure babies sleep safely this Christmas

Parents in Cornwall are being urged to remember the importance of safe sleeping for babies ahead of Christmas.

The festive season brings changes to normal routines; people visit friends and relatives, drink more alcohol, often go to bed at a different time, and it may be more difficult to access safer sleeping spaces for babies.  

Cornwall Council’s public health team and partners in the Our Safeguarding Children Partnership (OSCP) for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have joined the Lullaby Trust in reminding families that these changes to normal sleeping routines can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). 

Babies need plenty of sleep and it’s important to ensure that they are sleeping safely at all times, whether that’s overnight or daytime naps. 

Nationally, 300 babies die suddenly and unexpectedly every year but many of these deaths may have been prevented by following evidence-based, safer sleep advice.  

In Devon and Cornwall, since 2019, 24 babies have died where unsafe sleeping has been a factor. 

To help make sure that babies have a safer sleep, The Lullaby Trust’s safer sleep tips should be followed whether baby is sleeping at home or away, at baby’s normal bedtime and during daytime naps: 

• Always place your baby on their back to sleep 
• Place your baby to sleep in a separate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for the first six months  
• Place your baby in the "feet to foot" position, with their feet touching the end of the cot or Moses basket
• Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that is in good condition 
• Make sure there are no pillows, heavy duvets or cuddly toys in the cot or Moses basket 
• Keep your baby’s head uncovered – if they have a blanket, it should be tucked in no higher than their shoulders 
• If you're staying with family or friends this Christmas then a travel cot with a rigid frame and base is a safe place for your baby to sleep 
• It’s ok for your baby to fall asleep in a car seat when travelling, but they should be taken out as soon as you get to your destination and placed onto a firm, flat surface to sleep 
• If your trip involves driving for long periods of time, you should stop for regular breaks 
• Keep your baby smoke-free during pregnancy and after birth 
• Breastfeed your baby if you can – for support with breastfeeding, talk to your midwife or health visitor

Things to avoid: 

• Never sleep on a sofa or in an armchair with your baby – this can increase the risk of SIDS by 50 times 
• Don’t sleep in the same bed as your baby if you smoke, have recently drunk any alcohol, taken drugs or medication that makes you feel sleepy, or if your baby was born prematurely or was of low birth-weight 
• Avoid letting your baby get too hot 

Talk to your health visitor or midwife if you have any questions about how to create a safer sleep space for your baby. 

Cllr Barbara Ellenbroek, cabinet member for children and families at Cornwall Council, said: 

“The birth of a baby is such a special and happy time for families, and parents want to make sure that the newest member of the family is kept safe and comfortable. A parent’s greatest priority is keeping their child safe right from the first moments. 

“So, we want to remind people during this Christmas season, when families are often away from home staying with relatives, that the Lullaby Trust’s Safer Sleep tips should be followed.” 

Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: 

“Christmas is traditionally the season when people spend time with their families, often staying overnight at a relative’s house. Take a travel cot for baby to keep them safe and comfortable. 

“If you've had an alcoholic drink or taken medication, you need an appropriate adult to take care of your baby. Baby will be safest in their own separate sleeping place, ideally in a cot in your room. By following the Lullaby Trust's top tips, you and baby can have a fun and safe Christmas holiday.” 

Ben Deer, Chief Superintendent - Policing Commander for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and OSCP (Our Safeguarding Children Partnership) Chair, said: 

“We know that Christmas is a special time for families. We are proud to support this campaign to make sure as many parents, and professionals, know about the Lullaby Trust and their advice on how to make sure babies are sleeping safely.” 

For more information about Safer Sleep for babies, go to Safer sleep - Cornwall Council and https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep