An Introduction to The Lullaby Trust

What is The Lullaby Trust? Founded in 1971, The Lullaby Trust is a British charity that aims to prevent unexpected deaths in infancy and promote infant health. The charity began its journey following the death of Martin Charles de Selincourt, the grandson of founder Nancy Hunter-Gray. The Trust was originally formed as The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (FSID). 

Since its early beginnings, the charity has supported more than 20,000 families and over 23,000 babies. 

Research is at the heart of Lullaby Trust. Through dedicated fundraising, the charity has spent over £12 million on 265 research projects, trying to establish more about the potential causes and risk factors.  

While the Lullaby Trust initially focused on cot death, its work has expanded over the years to include bereavement support and infection prevention. 

Around three babies a week still die from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) 

 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome – What We Know

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the leading cause of death among young infants aged between 1 month and 1 year. Most deaths occur between 1 and 4 months of age, with 90% occurring within the first 6 months. After several years of funding and research into the condition, the cause remains unknown. However, researchers have found certain factors increase the risk of SIDS. 

  • It is thought that problems in an area of the infant's brain that controls breathing and waking up from sleep are a factor 
  • Low birth weight, premature or multiple births  
  • Exposure to smoke during and after pregnancy 
  • Viral respiratory illness  
  • Babies that are too hot 
  • Sleeping babies on their side or front 
  • Sleeping babies on a soft surface 

In most SIDS cases, the baby appears healthy, with death coming suddenly and unpredictably. 

 

Safer Sleep Advice – Reducing the Risk of S.I.D.S.

According to a survey by the Lullaby Trust, two-thirds of parents unknowingly sleep their baby somewhere unsuitable for sleep. 

Following Safer Sleep advice from The Lullaby Trust significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Follow the simple steps below until your baby is 12 months old (adjusted for premature babies).  

Lie Your Baby on Their Back

Strong scientific evidence suggests that sleeping your baby on their side or front increases the risk of SIDS. Sleeping on the front or side can cause airways to become narrow and also put pressure on the chest.  

Sleeping your baby on their back on a firm, flat surface is one of the most protective actions a parent can take for Safer Sleep. 

Keep The Sleep Space Clear 

Avoid using bumpers, toys and loose bedding that may cover your baby’s head. Evidence suggests that having your baby’s head covered during sleep dramatically increases the risk of SIDS. Your baby needs only two items in their cot: 

  • A firm, flat, waterproof mattress 
  • Lightweight bedding 

ergoPouch HugMe blanket partnered with The Lullaby Trust for a safer alternative to a blanket.

Use a Firm, Flat, Waterproof Mattress

The advice is to use a firm mattress so your baby’s head doesn’t sink in. A firm, flat surface will prevent your baby's head from slumping down, which will restrict the airways and oxygen reaching the lungs. A waterproof mattress will also help prevent the spread of germs. 

If your baby falls asleep in a bouncer, rocker or anywhere else that isn’t flat, it’s best to move them to a clear, firm, flat surface. 

Room Temperature

The recommended room temperature for babies is 16-20 C 

Using a room thermometer where your baby sleeps is helpful as a guide. However, all babies are different, and you should make regular checks to ensure your baby isn’t too hot. Overheating significantly increases the risk of SIDS. 

To keep your baby safe from the risks of overheating, avoid using duvets, hats, and excessive blankets. The Lullaby Trust recommends sleeping your baby in the same room as you for the first six months; this will help you assess the temperature of the room.  

The safest place for your baby to sleep is in the same room as you, in their own clear, flat sleep space, such as a crib or moses basket. 

Breastfeeding 

Breastfeeding lowers the risk of SIDS, and breastfeeding for at least 2 months halves the risk. Breastfed babies are at a lower risk for SIDS than babies who have never been breastfed. The longer you can breastfeed, the more protection your baby will have against SIDS. 

No Smoking

Smoking during pregnancy and after birth is a serious risk factor for SIDS. Research shows that 30% of SIDS fatalities are because of smoking during pregnancy. Smoking in the home also increases the risk of SIDS by 30%. The combined risk could be linked to 60% of SIDS cases. 

If you or someone you live with smokes, there are things that can reduce the risk of SIDS.  

  • Try not to smoke during and after pregnancy. 
  • Keep the area around your baby smoke-free. 
  • Do not share a bed with your baby if you or your partner smoke or have done so during pregnancy.   

It's essential to follow the safer sleep advice every sleep, every night until your baby is 12 months old. 

 

Bereavement Support 

The Lullaby Trust provides support to families when they experience the sudden loss of a baby.  Families must address a profound loss and the realisation that this loss is something they must cope with for the rest of their lives. The Lullaby Trust is invaluable, providing emotional and practical support for as long as needed. This includes connecting families with others in a similar situation and the ongoing support and comfort that often brings.  The Trust offers extended support through a befriending service, available informative resources, Facebook groups and family days out.  

If you or someone you know needs the help and support of The Lullaby Trust, you can contact them using a freephone helpline or email. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I dress my baby in at night? 

The Lullaby Trust recommends using a baby sleeping bag or well-fitting sheets. Your baby should only need to wear a nappy, vest and sleepsuit to sleep in. 

Is swaddling a good idea? 

Advice from The Lullaby Trust is to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions when swaddling. This will prevent overheating, a major SIDS risk factor. Also, always follow the Safer Sleep guidelines.  

What about co-sleeping? 

The Lullaby Trust recommends sleeping your baby in their own clear, flat sleep space. But co-sleeping still happens at times. However, it should be avoided if: 

  • You or your partner have drunk alcohol or taken drugs or medication that make you sleepy. 
  • You or your partner smoke, or the baby was exposed to smoke during pregnancy. 
  • Your baby was born prematurely or weighed under 2.5kg at birth. 

Can SIDS happen when my baby is awake? 

SIDS is primarily something that happens while babies are asleep. It can occasionally happen while they are awake. 

Are there signs of SIDS before it happens? 

There are no warning signs or symptoms, and babies appear healthy and well. 

What is the most significant risk factor to SIDS? 

Sleep position is the highest risk factor. Babies should be placed to sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS. 

Can SIDS happen during the day? 

SIDS can happen at any time of the day, and it happens quickly. Parents of young babies should supervise them regularly while sleeping. 

 

The team at Sky Rockets are keen to research the sensitive issues and information surrounding SIDS. Hopefully, we can use our platform to raise awareness of Safer Sleep practices and promote the support offered by the Lullaby Trust for the benefit of families everywhere. 

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