Foundation is helping carers to reduce risk of sudden infant death syndrome

Editor—Gottlieb reports that more cases of the sudden infant death syndrome (cot deaths) occur in day care than at home.¹ Since 1996 the Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths has recognised that carers have been a neglected group for receiving advice on reducing the risk of the syndrome, information about cot deaths, and bereavement support.

The foundation has held seven one day conferences—“Holding the baby”—especially tailored for nannies, nursery nurses, childminders, and foster carers. At these conferences we offer advice on how to reduce the risk of the sudden infant death syndrome and how to provide support when a baby dies suddenly and unexpectedly. As a result of these conferences and the information shared, delegates have left to draw up their own guidelines, some of which include holding a drill. The need for support for foster carers has been highlighted.

The foundation has also recognised the need for babysitters to receive the “reduce the risk” message and has produced some guidelines for what to do in an emergency. “Care with confidence” is the latest leaflet to be produced, following on from the “Are you babysitting tonight?” leaflet.

Gottlieb reports a study in the United States; that country lags behind the United Kingdom in promoting total population intervention. Not all cases of the sudden infant death syndrome that occur in someone else's care are due to neglect or failure to follow the guidelines to reduce the risk: babies at higher risk, such as babies of drug misusers, are more likely to be in day care or to be fostered.

The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths is continuing to promote the reduce the risk message to all carers with further conferences and talks to nurseries and schools. Its 24 hour helpline (020 7233 2090) is also available to all carers.