Walk to promote Safer Sleep Week brings information and smiles to the area

This week, staff from Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust’s Hull and East Riding 0-19 integrated specialist public health nurse services (ISPHNs/IPHNs) completed a 9-mile walk to raise awareness about the 9 safer sleep guidelines recommended for babies. The event saw teams walking between various Family Hubs, Children’s Centres, museums, and shopping centres, providing essential information to parents and caregivers about safer sleep and infant feeding.

It was also an opportunity to raise money for the Trust’s Charity Health Stars who support services to deliver enhanced experiences for all their service users and staff.

The walk aimed to engage local communities and spread key messages about how to ensure babies sleep as safely as possible. In Yorkshire and Humber in last 5 years ending 31/3/24, 9.5% of deaths reviewed were sudden unexpected and unexplained, and 77% had modifiable factors.

The team distributed valuable advice based on proven principles to help keep infants safe while they sleep. The key guidance shared includes:

·         Lie your baby on their back – Always place babies on their back to sleep.

·         Keep their cot clear – Ensure the baby’s sleeping area is free from pillows, blankets, and soft toys.

·         Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress – Ensure a firm and safe sleep surface for your baby.

·         Keep baby smoke-free – Avoid exposing your baby to second-hand smoke.

·         Avoid your baby getting too hot – Keep the room temperature between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius.

·         Sleep your baby in the same room as you for at least the first six months – Room-sharing reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

·         More information can be found on Lullaby Trust

By walking through key locations in the region, the 0-19 ISPHN/IPHN services team was able to reach parents, caregivers, and the broader community, empowering them with the knowledge to keep babies safe and healthy. The event highlights the Trust’s commitment to supporting families and promoting public health through education and outreach.

For further information on safer sleep practices and infant feeding, visit the Connect Website here or Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust website. You can also support Health Stars by donating to their Just Giving page.