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Lullaby Trust Baby Check App

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What is the Baby Check app?

If your baby is under six months of age, you can use the Baby Check app to find out if they need to see a health professional.

The app includes 17 simple checks you can do if your baby is showing signs of illness. Each check tests for a different symptom and, when completed, the app will let you know if your baby needs to see a health professional, giving you peace of mind in your pocket.

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If you're worried your baby is unwell, our free Baby Check app helps you decide whether they need to see a health professional or not...

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Feeding service drop ins for both Brighton and Hove and West Sussex.

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breastfeeding
bottle feeding
baby feeding
mother and baby
infant feeding
breastfeeding support
breastfeeding support sussex
breastfeeding sussex

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The Infant Feeding Services provide mothers and families with specialist advice and support to make informed feeding decisions.

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This app can be downloaded to your device to help explain the neonatal unit to siblings and children in your family.

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Nell and the Neonatal Unit – Apps on Google Play

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Nell and the Neonatal Unit tackles big topics surrounding healthcare for childs

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The quick reference baby guide for LGBTQI+ non-birthing parents

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DadPad | The Essential Guide for New Dads | Support Guide for New Dads

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Co-ParentPad - DadPad | The Essential Guide for New Dads | Support Guide for New Dads

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Developed with the NHS, DadPad gives new dads and dads-to-be the knowledge and skills needed to gain confidence and give their baby the best start in life.

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How to measure your 🤬 tip for accurate funnel sizing

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How to measure your 🤬 tip for accurate funnel sizing

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Expressing Breastmilk - Patient Information Video

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This video was produced in collaboration with University Hospital Southampton as part of a project funded by NHSE South West. The project focuses on equity of access to appropriate equipment for expressing maternal breastmilk.

This video is designed to help breastfeeding parents to express breastmilk. The topics covered include:

The importance of correctly fitted equipment.
How to measure your nipple for flange sizing.
How to tell if you have the correct or incorrect fit. 
Variations in sizing depending on type or brand of breast pump.
How to prepare for expressing breastmilk.
How to assemble and use a breast pump.
Troubleshooting common issues in expressing breastmilk.

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Where to store your belongings on the unit

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Where to store your belongings on the unit

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A charity supporting children with disabilities and their families from Brighton & Hove and the surrounding area.

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Parenting and Family Support - Family Lives (Parentline Plus) | Family Lives

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Parenting and family support from Family Lives (formerly Parentline Plus) through our website, helpline 0808 800 2222, email service at askus@familylives.org.uk, live chat and local services.

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You can translate information on this page using Google translate at the top of this webpage and selecting your language.

Please note Google translate is a machine automated translation tool. Find out more about Google translate in our accessibility information.

What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

RSV is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms. It is very contagious and passes easily between people through hand contact or in droplets produced by coughing and sneezing.

It's known to infect almost all children by the age of two, and often parents will not know that the colds and sniffles their baby is experiencing are caused by RSV.

What are the signs and symptoms of RSV?

In the early stages, RSV symptoms are similar to a common cold (runny or blocked nose, cough, sneezing and high temperature).

Symptoms usually last between one and three weeks. If the lungs are affected, one or more of the following symptoms will develop or get worse:

A cough that gets worse

Wheezing - a whistling sound when breathing out

Difficulty or distress when breathing

Reduction in feeding and drinking because of breathing difficulties.

RSV can lead to bronchiolitis and viral pneumonia, which can be serious conditions.

RSV can cause critical illness in babies born premature or sick, and those with underlying medical conditions such as chronic lung disease (also known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or BPD) congenital heart disease, and other conditions affecting the immune system.

If the lungs become affected it can lead to breathing difficulties and may require hospital treatment. Risk of severe infection and hospitalisation decreases as your baby gets older.

When is RSV likely to be a problem for my baby?

If your baby was born prematurely, is prone to lung infections or was born with a congenital heart problem, they could be at greater risk of becoming seriously ill if infected with RSV.

Like other seasonal coughs, colds and flu, RSV is usually most prevalent in the UK between October and March each year.

Through the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, restrictions in social contact meant that cases of RSV were reduced.

Since people began mixing again, there has been an increase in cases ahead of the usual seasonal trend, from June, mainly in children aged under five.

How can RSV infections be prevented in premature and sick babies?

A monthly antibody injection (palivizumab) has proved effective at protecting against severe infection and reducing hospitalisation.

It is recommended by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) for children under two years who are considered to be high-risk.

This includes some babies born premature or sick with chronic lung disease or congenital heart problems, and those known to have a weakened immune system.

This injection must be given once a month over the RSV season, and healthcare professionals will give up to seven doses.

Because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, more babies are eligible to receive the jab. This includes most babies who have been discharged from hospital on oxygen in the last nine months.

Since RSV infections are on the rise out of the usual seasonal cycle, you can speak with your GP or neonatal staff to understand whether preventative antibody treatment might be available for your child.

If your baby is in the neonatal unit, staff may arrange for RSV immunisations to take place before they are discharged from hospital.

Even with palivizumab treatment, your baby could become infected with RSV, but they are less likely to to need to be treated in hospital.

Is there a vaccine for RSV?

Currently injections of preventative antibodies in the form of palivizumab are the best protection against severe infection.

Several vaccines that create longer-lasting immunity are in the late stages of clinical trials.

The World Health Organization (WHO) expects one to be available within a few years.

Can I reduce the risk of my baby getting RSV?

RSV is very contagious and passes easily between people via droplets from the nose or mouth. It can survive on surfaces for up to 24 hours.

Practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly, discourage adults and children with cold-like symptoms from handling, kissing and cuddling your baby, and try to reduce your baby's exposure to crowds and public transport.

Previous infection does not provide immunity, meaning that your child can get RSV again even if they've had it before.

RSV is more likely to spread where there are groups of young children, for example in nurseries, playgroups and schools, and in babies with preschool-age siblings.

Exclusive breastfeeding reduces the risk of severe infection and hospitalisation with RSV. If you would like to breastfeed and need support, speak with healthcare professionals who will be able to help.

If your baby is in the neonatal unit and you are not able to breastfeed them, you may want to express your milk.

This can be fed to your baby through a tube into their tummy, giving them the benefits of breast milk. Visit our pages on feeding for more information.

Smoking or allowing others to smoke near your baby increases their risk of hospitalisation with RSV.

The NHS runs free stop smoking services that can support you or members of your household to quit smoking.

My child is older than two. Are they still at risk of RSV?

The risk of hospitalisation due to an RSV infection is greatest in the first few months of life. Being infected again is common and can occur at any age, but symptoms are usually less severe.

If you are concerned, speak with a GP, neonatal staff or another healthcare professional, such as a health visitor or community nurse.

They will be able to tell you if your child is in the at-risk category and therefore qualifies for preventative treatment.

When to seek help from a hospital

Babies who show any of the following symptoms should be taken to hospital immediately:

Apnoea (pauses in breathing, particularly during sleep)

Infant appears to be seriously unwell

Severe respiratory problems (such as grunting), a marked chest recession (where the chest seems to sink inwards), or a respiratory rate of over 60 breaths per minute

Central cyanosis (blue or purple discolouration of the skin due to lack of oxygen).

What are the possible hospital treatments for RSV?

If your baby needs to stay in hospital due to an RSV infection, they will be monitored closely. They may be given oxygen support, fluids directly into their veins (IV fluids) and assistance with breathing.

What are the long-term effects of RSV?

Wheezing that keeps returning, asthma, and other problems with breathing have been seen in children who had hospital treatment for RSV.

Some studies have also shown that children who had a severe RSV infection may be more likely to develop sensitivities to allergens such as pollen or dust mites.

Where can I get more help and support for RSV?

In the first instance, always speak with a healthcare professional such as your neonatal team, your consultant, your GP, health visitor, or community nurse.

If your baby is in the neonatal unit, staff may arrange for RSV immunisations to take place before they are discharged from hospital.

You can also dial 111 or use these out-of-hours services:

NHS 111 England

NHS 111 Wales

NHS 24 (Scotland)

Dial 999 immediately if you think your baby might be seriously unwell.

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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) | Bliss

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You can translate information on this page using Google translate at the top of this webpage and selecting your language. Please note Google translate is a machine automated translation tool. Find out more about Google translate in our accessibility information.

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Parent Advisory Group for veteran parents

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Parent Advisory Group for veteran parents

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Kent Surrey and Susssex  Parent Rep Role Description

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local support networks and signposting to useful resources for refugees and people seeking sanctuary.

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City of Sanctuary - City of Sanctuary UK

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A free app to support you emotionally during your neonatal journey. Canopie is rooted in evidence-based techniques. The program focuses on the challenges that all mamas and parents face as they transition from the prenatal to postnatal period.

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Maternal mental health conditions are the #1 complication of pregnancy and childbirth. We created a digital platform to address symptoms of maternal depression and anxiety.

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Providing resources on becoming a father and support to anyone who is supporting someone through pregnancy and birth.

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Planning a pregnancy and having a baby are life-changing and exciting events. We have lots of information and and support to help you.

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They support the emotional safety of men and those they care about through three key areas; supporting male victims of domestic abuse, supporting men with family separation, and supporting men’s mental health. All of our services use an evidence-based, trauma informed, person-centred approach

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Dads Unlimited - Supporting the emotional safety of men and those they care about

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Dads Unlimited is an award-winning charity that supports the emotional safety of men and those they care about.

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They aim to help dads have successful relationships with their families, and to support dads with anxiety, stress and mental health issues.

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We aim to help dads have successful relationships with their families, and to support dads with anxiety, stress and mental health issues.

We hope to get dads engaged with services that have traditionally been targeted at mums, and to train & support volunteer dads to work with us.

We work directly with services that support Dads, families and especially babies to increase engagement and knowledge across the sector.

We want to make sure dads know how important they are, how to access support when they need it and why it's essential for baby's development.

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VOLUNTEER WITH US EVENTS REGISTRATION FIND SUPPORT IN YOUR AREA DONATE HERE We aim to help dads have successful relationships with their families, and to support dads with anxiety, stress and mental health issues. We hope to get dads engaged with services that have traditionally been targeted at mums,

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Mother Ship: a podcast about prematurity

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Listen to Mother Ship: a podcast about prematurity on Spotify.

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Spoons Charity - Neonatal Family Support

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When a baby is admitted to neonatal care, there is a lot of focus on mum. She may be unwell after the birth and receiving care from the midwives. We know that dads and partners struggle yet w e find that more mums are reaching out for help than dads. Dads also tell us it feels easier for mums to access support and they don't know where to start. Men tend to hide their feelings which can result in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder later down the line. We want to ensure neonatal dads have an accessible support network.

Dads might also feel under pressure to return to work. Some new dads have to take their paternity leave when their baby is on the neonatal unit, or they may have to use up holidays or take unpaid leave. It can be very stressful. You might find you have no time to stop and address your own thoughts and feelings .

One of our dads has come up with some tips and coping strategies for new dads who find themselves on a neonatal journey.

The story below has been written by one of our neonatal dads who was deeply affected by his son's traumatic birth. It really highlights the need for more support for dads in neonatal care.

My son was born very early at 24 weeks gestation. He was born in a very bad way... in a breech position and my wife had a large bleed leading to our son swallowing a lot of her blood. He was tiny, weighing 1lb 7oz. I was completely petrified the day he was born. It was like my worst nightmare but it was real. Just after my son was born I listened to the medical team as they connected him to a ventilator, lines and monitors. My wife was unconscious and the midwife was panicking due to the amount of blood she had lost. Then the beeps from the medical devices connected to my son became weaker and weaker until they stopped. There must have been a team of 15 medical staff in the room but all was completely silent. I was praying so hard my hands turned white and I remember thinking that this just cannot happen. I am still haunted by this day now and the thought that I could have lost my wife and little boy, fills me with a fear that I've never felt before. Despite my son's very early arrival and having a long list of severe medical issues he managed to pull through against all odds. We had a long and stressful stay in NICU and he came home on oxygen. After only a few days home he was rushed back into hospital after catching a cold. Our son remained on oxygen for 1 year which was challenging for me. I felt I had a lot of pressure on me. I am self employed, so I had to continue working despite what was going on at home and this was hard. We had agreed the sale on our house and were house hunting when our son was born. I had to take on that responsibility as I didn't want my wife becoming any more stressed. Somehow, and I don't know how, I managed to keep everything running pretty smoothly during the dark days in NICU but I found that I really struggled once things settled down. It was like bad weather moved into my mind and stayed there. The weather wasn't really stormy but was gloomy and depressing. I felt sad and negative, and a bit alone. The strange thing is that I didn't realise how bad it had affected me until I came out of it. I understand now that the symptoms are typical of PTSD, but even though I tried, I couldn't get any metal health support and this almost led to my business falling apart. I felt let down by the system. I guess I did some real soul searching and I opened up to my wife about how I was feeling, and that was the beginning of me admitting it to myself. I had to almost pick everything apart so I could put it all back together again and it was difficult. I started talking to a few other dads from NICU who I had kept in touch with and it was a surprise and a relief to find out they felt the same. It has been a long road for me. We're a few years on now and I still struggle to think about my boy's birth, but things have got easier. If I could give another bloke on NICU some advice it would be to talk - talk to other dads on the unit, especially those who have come out the other side of NICU. Reach out for help. It is out there and it is getting easier to find.

Spoons has a private Dads Facebook group. This is a safe space for dads who experience neonatal care to chat to other dads and share their experiences. If you are a dad who has experienced neonatal care in Greater Manchester you can request to join the group via this link Spoons Dads Facebook Group

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Neonatal Dads - Spoons Charity - Neonatal Family Support

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Neonatal dads can struggle with mental health on the unit or post discharge. We aim to support dads throughout the neonatal journey and beyond. Donate today

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News About us Get involved Run For Us Picnic Meet with your MP to ask for Neonatal Leave Now How to Fundraise You give | we do Subscribe to our newsletter Who We Are Our Mission After NICU: A post pandemic report 2021 Prem Aware Award Your premature child at

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This information and videos are available in verified by experts in our Editorial Board including representatives from Royal College of Midwives, Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and Royal College of Psychiatrists as well as other key health organisations in the UK. To download Baby Buddy, visit the relevant app store of your choice:

Being a new parent

Dad Che shares his feelings about becoming a dad for the first time.

Fathers talk about mental health after birth

Dads open up about how they struggled after the birth of their baby.

Supporting your partner

Dad Andy talks about how he helps to support his partner.

Baby Communication

Hear how dad Joshua is learning to communicate with his new-born baby.

Latest

The Impact Lead will focus on developing Best Beginnings' frameworks for monitoring and evaluating our national and international work ensuring that learning continues to be captured in ways that can be shared and used for effective advocacy and influencing. The successful candidate will also play a pivotal role influencing policy and its implementation within the maternity, early years, digital health and public health context.

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We have loads of dedicated information for dads and male caregivers too! From advice on supporting your partner to looking after your mental health.

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10 ways to encourage bonding between NICU babies and their siblings

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10 ways to encourage bonding between NICU babies and their siblings

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Encouraging bonds to form between preemies and their siblings requires extra thought and consideration when a baby is receiving neonatal care, because the baby is separated from her brother or sister, and certain bonding activities (such as touch) may not be possible immediately when a baby is born too soon. Having a baby born in the NICU is also a distressing time for the sibling and their needs can sometimes be forgotten in the turmoil surrounding premature birth. (Beavis, 2007) With this in mind, here are 10 activities to encourage bonding between premature babies and their siblings.

1. Create a sibling scrapbook
Celebrating the arrival of a newborn baby is part of the acceptance process; a great way of involving your older child is to buy a scrapbook where they can write messages to their baby brother or sister, record milestones and add pictures. The scrapbook will become a focal point for your child's feelings and maybe even something they can present in show and tell. The book can also be kept as a record to show how far the baby has come.

2. Give your child a homecoming calendar
Siblings of preemies may think that their baby brother or sister is never going to come home. To help with their fears, give your child their own calendar and ask them to mark off the days until the baby comes home, as shown here in this lovely illustrated book, Evan Early.

3. Use videos to introduce baby to their sibling
Parents who have experienced premature birth will know that many neonatal units have a policy of not admitting toddlers and this delays physical contact between siblings. One method of promoting closeness that doesn't involve physical contact is to keep a video diary and show your child their brother or sister. The advantage of using technology is that your child will be able to see the baby before he or she comes home. If your neonatal unit uses Secure Video Messaging, why not ask your nurse to create a personalised video that includes a greeting from your newborn baby to help your older child understand that the new baby loves them and is looking forward to coming home.

4. Bring a small gift for the baby
The act of exchanging gifts can really empower a child struggling to cope with having a baby in the NICU. (Bracci, 2012). Why not ask your partner to take your older child shopping and say that they can choose a present for their brother or sister to the value of X?

You may also consider choosing a gift for your older child. Watch their face light up when you tell them: "Here's something the baby left for you."

Here are some gift suggestions for sibs that we love!

Personalised zippie cuddly owl.

Build a bear workshop stuffed animal.

Add, a personalised voice message from the baby's brother or sister for an extra £5.

5. Join a sibling support club or attend a sibling support day
Some NICUs focus on the needs of siblings by running sibling support clubs. In our research for this blog piece, we read about a unit in New Zealand that has a dedicated play area for siblings near to the neonatal unit. We also heard about sibling support days that have been introduced at the Maxine Dunitz Children's Health Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. This initiative teaches children how to care for their baby brother or sister through the use of dolls; plus, they learn how to interact with the sibling they haven't met yet.

6. Encourage your child to make things for the baby
Not being able to be close to their baby brother or sister is distressing for children, but drawing pictures to go by the baby's cotside or making something for the baby, will help your child to feel closer to their brother and sister when they are not able to be there.

Here are some of our fave craft makes:
DIY door sign for kids (stick on or near to the incubator) Handprint rainbow painting Heart ladybug
7. Read books that relate to siblings and the NICU process
Reading books related to the NICU experience will make it easier for you to talk with your child about why their sibling is in a neonatal unit. Make sure that they know it is nobody's fault that their baby brother or sister is in the NICU. Reading relevant books is also a method you can use to prepare them for the first visit to the NICU so that it is less daunting.

Here are a few suggestions:
My Sister is a Preemie My Brother is a Preemie Waiting For Baby: A Sibling Visits the NICU
8. Read up on the real-life fears of a sibling to premature twins
Children that have experienced first-hand the fears associated with being a sibling to a preemie are able to give the best insights into their world. In this blog piece by Helping Hands, Alexis Gordon, big sister to premature twins, Lola and Landry, reflects on what she found hardest and shares her advice for other siblings who have babies in the NICU.

9. Consider gift kits for every sibling
The NICU at Golisano Children's Hospital has a very special way of reassuring preemie siblings. Each child is given a story, a small teddy bear, a measuring tape (to show the size of their brother or sister), a picture, a bottle, a small blanket, and some stickers to decorate a picture about her sister. Andrea, a mum whose daughter received the kit, said: "This was an amazing help. These items helped us talk about the things the baby needed and used."

10. Allocate time for baby-talk
Set aside an hour in the morning or in the evening for talking to your older child about your new arrival. Maybe you could talk about the milestone your baby has achieved that day; perhaps he or she has gained weight or had some equipment removed. It's probably wise to stay away from medical jargon that they won't understand. Keep in mind that this time is to help your child feel involved and like they are getting to know their sibling. Also, don't forget to have fun - you could get creative and use fruits to show your child the size of the baby as he or she progresses. This can be especially useful before the first visit to see their preemie brother or sister, to prepare them for just how small baby will be.

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10 ways to encourage bonding between preemies and their siblings

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Encouraging bonds to form between preemies and their siblings requires extra thought and consideration when a baby is receiving neonatal care, because the baby is separated from her brother or sister, and certain bonding activities (such as touch) may not be possible immediately when a baby is born too soon.

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Choose which finance issue you'd like some information about. You can always come back if there's more than one area you'd like to explore.

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An illustrated audiobook of 'My very little sister and the very big story'

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An illustrated audiobook of 'My very little sister and the very big story'

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My very little sister and the very big story

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Dr Kerry Taylor is a HCPC registered clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with 0-3’s and their parents. She is a specialist in parent-baby bonding, parenting, and babies’ mental health. She is also founder of the BrightPIP charity which works with parents-to-be and parents and babies in Brighton and Hove and East Sussex.

Kerry is here for all families on the Trevor Mann Baby Unit and there is no reason too small to ask to see her. It could be a one-off question, a regular check in or therapy sessions. There is a wide range of reasons parent and baby psychology can be helpful. Examples are, managing the overwhelm of the birth experience, coping with being in a medical environment, coping with feelings of anxiety or low mood, building confidence in parenting, understanding what your baby needs and enjoying connecting with your baby.

You can refer yourself directly by calling/texting/Whatsapp 07887 793162. Calls will be picked up during working hours of: Tuesday 9-8, Wednesday 9.30-2.30, Thursday 9.30-5.30.

A staff member can also link you up with Kerry, please just ask

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Car seat safety by the Lullabytrust

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It is recommended that you avoid travelling in cars with pre-term and young babies for long distances. Research into the link between car seats and SIDS found young babies may be at risk of breathing difficulties if they sleep in a seated position for too long.

If your trip involves driving for long periods of time, you should stop for frequent breaks. This will allow you to check on your baby, take them out of the car seat and let them stretch and move around.

Ideally, a second adult should travel in the back of the car with your baby, or if travelling alone use a mirror to keep an eye on your baby. If your baby changes their position and slumps forward, then you should immediately stop, take them out of the car seat and sit them upright before continuing on your journey.

It is essential for safety that babies travel in a rearward-facing baby seats. Rearward-facing seats provide greater protection for the baby's head, neck and spine than forward-facing seats.

Babies should not sleep in car seats for long periods

Car seats are designed to keep babies safe while travelling, not as a main sleeping place. Car seats should only be used for transport and not as an alternative for cots or high chairs. 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.

Overheating

Babies that get too hot are at a greater risk of SIDS. We advise removing any hats or outdoor clothing such as snowsuits and coats once your baby is in the car. The best way to check your baby isn't getting too hot is to feel their tummy or back of their neck. If their skin feels clammy or sweaty they are too hot, so remove a layer of clothing.

Make sure you have the right car seat for your baby's weight and it is fitted properly (many shops will help with this).

It is recommended that you do not buy or use a second-hand car seat as you cannot be certain of its history. It could have been involved in an accident and the damage may not be visible.

Car seats must conform to safety standards - United Nations standard, ECE Regulation 44.04 (or R 44.03) or to the new i-size regulation, R129. Look for the 'E' mark label on the seat.

Car seats and SIDS FAQs

Are babies at a greater risk of SIDS in a car seat?

Click here to open this question

Avoid travelling in cars with pre-term and young babies for long distances. Research published in 2016 by the University of Bristol looked at the health effects on babies of travelling in car seats. The study found pre-term and young babies may be at risk of breathing difficulties if travelling in an upright position in car seats for a long period of time.

You can read the findings of the research here: https://fn.bmj.com/content/102/2/F136

My baby often falls asleep in their car seat - can I leave them in there?

Click here to open this question

It's OK for your baby to fall asleep in a car seat when travelling, but they should be taken out of the car seat as soon as you get to your destination, and placed onto a firm, flat surface to sleep such as a cot or Moses basket.

For more information, download our car seats and SIDS fact sheet
Further safer sleep information available here

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It's OK for your baby to fall asleep in a car seat when travelling but research does show a link between car seats and SIDS

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Neonatal units in Kent, Surrey and Sussex

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Neonatal units in Kent, Surrey and Sussex

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This page directs you to websites for each of the units in Kent, Surrey and Sussex as well as Thames, Valley and Wessex. You will find information about each unit, their own padlet, how to get there, and 3D tours of the unit.

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Click on the hospitals below to find out more about the units within our network and to view each unit's individual website. To find out more about where each unit is situated across our region, you can also visit our interactive map.

Accessibility Toolbar

close Toggle the visibility of the Accessibility Toolbar

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Unit Information - Neonatal Network South East

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Click on the hospitals below to find out more about the units within our network and to view each unit's individual website. To find out more about where each unit is situated across our region, you can also visit our interactive map.

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Medicines information for parents and carers taking babies home with medicines.

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Skip to content

Giving medicines to babies

The Medicines for Children team are delighted to share a series of resources for parents and carers. They provide information to support safe use of medicines for babies at home.

These resources were developed by parents and a collaboration of five hospitals across the UK and Ireland. The 'PADDINGToN Study' (Parent co-Designed Drug Information for parents and Guardians Taking Neonates home) was led by Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.

Contact and NHS helplines

If your child is seriously ill, telephone 999 (UK only) or 112 for emergency help.

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Medicines information for parents and carers taking babies home with medicines

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Skip to content The Medicines for Children team are delighted to share a series of resources for parents and carers. They provide information to support safe use of medicines for babies at home. These resources were developed by parents and a collaboration of five hospitals across the UK and Ireland.

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Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health

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What is the National Neonatal Audit Programme?

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FREE 1-1 & group, online & face-to-face peer support to local East Sussex Parents. You can refer yourself or ask one of the team on the unit to refer you.

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*Unit information
*The neonatal environment
*You and your baby on the unit
*Feeding
*Developmental care
*Local and unit parent health and wellbeing
*National parent health and wellbeing
*Dad/support person specific support
*Financial support
*Being transferred
*Screening/consent and confidentiality
*Going home
*Useful information
*Local information
*Local charities and support groups
*National charities and support groups
*Bereavement support
*Feedback

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The padlet is a hub of information that can be useful to you and your family during your stay on the neonatal unit.
You can scroll left and right to the heading you would like to explore.
Then scroll down - When you double click on the information you would like to know more about, it will re direct you to a leaflet, website or short video, simply click the X in the top right hand corner if you wish to come back to the page.
The information is here for you to explore in your own time. Please don't forget the nursing and medical team are here to answer any questions you may have and support you through your journey.

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This booklet has been created for you, as their parents, to show you how you can provide additional support to help them learn new skills in the first few months after their due date. These early skills are; gaining good head control; raising their head and chest up when on their tummies with their arms forward; grasping toys and bringing them to their mouth.

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Supporting families during and after the loss of a twin, triplet or multiples.

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The Twins Trust Bereavement Service exists to support all parents and carers of twins, triplets or more who have died whether it was during or after pregnancy.

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Father's Days: the animated memoir of a first-time dad

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Father's Days: the animated memoir of a first-time dad

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5 tips to help support Dads through the neonatal journey

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5 tips to help support Dads through the neonatal journey

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University Hospitals Sussex Infant Feeding Padlet

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University Hospitals Sussex Infant Feeding Padlet

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The parents’ area is somewhere where you can step away from the nursery and make yourself a cup of tea or coffee and have something to eat. There is a selection of refreshments that are provided by the Early Birth Association and other charities, so please help yourself.

There is a fridge and microwave in the kitchenette, please label any food clearly with your name before placing in the fridge or cupboard. You will find that there are two microwaves, one designated to heating food and one for sterilising equipment such as bottles and breast/chest pump kits.

You will also find a toilet with showering facilities and a feeding room (room 2) on the unit. We encourage you to express at your baby’s cot side, however this room is provided to make you feel comfortable if you would like more privacy.

You may have noticed that we have another room available next to the feeding room. This room is known as the flat (room 1) and is used if your baby has stayed with us for a while and your baby is nearly ready to go home. If your baby is at that stage, you can stay in the flat with your baby with the support of nursing team. This is usually for one or two nights and is aimed to ease the transition from hospital to home.

These rooms may also be available for you to use for the day if you are establishing breast/chest feeding, but this will depend on whether the room is available, what stage your baby is at in terms of oral feeds and the level of monitoring that they require. Please discuss this option with your baby’s nurse at the appropriate time.

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Most car accidents happen close to home. Child car seats can keep your child safe. But not every seat fits every car. And if a seat is fiddly to use, you may be tempted not bother with it on short journeys. Here are our top tips for choosing the best car seat for your child.

There are two different types of car seat:

Group (0-III) is based on the weight and physical development of the child.

Age ranges are given too, but these are just for guidance.

i-Size is based on the child's height and seats provide protection from side impacts.

They fit all i-Size-ready cars and some ISOFIX cars.

As not all i-Size seats fit ISOFIX cars, we advise checking if the seat is approved for your car before you buy one.

It's safest for babies to travel rear-facing for as long as possible.

Rear-facing seats are either:

Group 0+ (Group 0 seats are no longer readily available)

i-Size.

Don't be tempted to move a baby to a forward-facing seat just because their feet are pressing against the rear seat of your car.

It's best to wait until they reach the weight limit or the crown of their head reaches the top of the baby seat.

Always travel with your baby in the back seat if you can.

If it's essential for them to be in the front seat, the passenger airbag must be switched off - if the airbag activates in a crash it will harm your baby.

Remember, child car seats aren't intended to be places for babies to sleep when you're not travelling, so move them to a moses basket or cot as soon as you can.

When your baby has outgrown their baby car seat they can be moved to a child seat that can be forward-facing or rear-facing.

Some seats are designed to be changed from rear-facing baby seats to forward-facing toddler/child seats when your child is 15 months.

Others, sometimes known as extended rear-facing seats, can be used rear-facing until your child is 105cm tall, about 4 years old.

Rear-facing seats can offer high levels of protection for your child's neck, especially in a head on collision, so the longer they travel in a rear-facing seat the safer they should be in a crash.

More advice on extended rear-facing seats can be found at www.childcarseats.org.uk/media/1022/extended-rearward-facing-child-car-seats.pdf

It's safest to keep your child in a car seat with an integral harness for as long as possible. Only move your child to a booster seat when their eye-line is above the back of the child seat or the weight limit is reached.

Most booster seats 'grow' with your child.

Booster seats suitable for children who weigh between 15kg and 36kg are:

A high-backed booster seat offers the best protection for your child, providing side protection and support.

Remember, adult seat belts don't sit on children's bodies in the right places and can injure them in a car accident.

Buying second-hand car seats is not recommended.

They may have been damaged in an accident, but you won't necessarily be able to tell by looking at them.

If you do use a second-hand car seat, try to make sure you know its history and read the manufacturer's instructions. Check nothing's damaged and no parts are missing.

Not every seat will fit properly in every car. Try the seat in your car before you buy it, or check the returns policy.

Make sure the seat can be fitted exactly to the manufacturer's instructions.

The seat should be secure. If it wobbles, it is either wrongly fitted or not suitable for your car.

If your car has ISOFIX attachments, consider buying an ISOFIX seat.

Try to find a seat that's quick and easy to fit into your car. If it's awkward, it may be tempting to not bother with it on short journeys.

It's vital you use your child car seat on every journey - most accidents happen within a short distance of home.

Make sure the seat you buy fits on the back seat as this is safer for your child.

The law applies to cars, vans and other goods vehicles.

You must always use a child restraint appropriate for the child's age, height and weight, whether the child is travelling in the front or rear of the vehicle.

If an appropriate restraint is not available, it's illegal for a child to travel in the vehicle.

The only exception is in a taxi if the correct child restraint isn't available.

An adult seat belt must be worn if fitted.

Find out about cycle safety and teaching road safety.

Download the Department for Transport's booklet on seat belts and child restraints.

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Child safety in the car - a guide to child car seats Most car accidents happen close to home. Child car seats can keep your child safe. But not every seat fits every car. And if a seat is fiddly to use, you may be tempted not bother with it on short journeys.

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Safety Tips an accident prevention

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Free educational resources

Looking for free educational resources to help keep children safe? Download and share our free safety fact sheets, use our eye-catching materials to create a colourful display or run a safety workshop for parents with our session plans.

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Child Accident Prevention Trust | A safer world for all our children

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Safety advice Many accidents are a part of growing up. Children need to explore and experiment. But some children suffer the pain of serious accidents that can alter the course of their lives forever. Most of these serious accidents are completely preventable by making simple solutions or changes to routines.

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An advanced clinical massage therapist visits TMBU twice a month to offer massages to parents. They take place on the unit in the quiet room where a calm and tranquil atmosphere has been created. Each massage time slot is 20 minutes and a sign up sheet is available by the water fountain. You can ask your nurse for more information and to sign up.

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Meningitis Now provides support for those affected and spreads awareness of the disease.

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Meningitis research, support and awareness | Meningitis Now

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Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes surrounding and protecting the brain and spinal cord and can be bacterial or viral. Meningitis Now is the UK's largest meningitis charity, offering support, funding research and raising awareness. Find out how we are saving lives and rebuilding futures

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Metabolic Support UK supports thousands of people worldwide through providing individual support, building communities, and continually advocating for and empowering those living with Inherited Metabolic Disorders (IMDs).

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Metabolic Support UK are the leading patient organisation for Inherited Metabolic Disorders, visit our home page for more information.

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The British Heart Foundation has information on a variety of different cardiac conditions as well as support and advice.

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Volunteering with us can help you build new skills and make new friends. You can volunteer in our shops, at one of our events, or as part of a fundraising group.

Find the volunteering role for you

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With your donations, we harness the power of science to take on the world's biggest killers. And together, we give people more time with the ones they love.

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SWAN UK supports families affected by a syndrome without a name – a genetic condition so rare it often remains undiagnosed.

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How can I get a diagnosis for my child? Finding support for your child and family How can I fundraise for SWAN UK? The latest news from SWAN UK... Britain's ...

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Dsdfamilies is an information and peer support charity for families of children diagnosed with Differences of Sex development.

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Dsdfamilies is an information and peer support charity for families. Every year in the UK, approximately 150 children are diagnosed with Differences of, diverse (or as doctors might say, Disorder of) Sex development (DSD). That means there are approximately 2,300 children living with DSD condition…

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A diary to document all your baby's milestone moments with space for photos.

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The IAPT service covers the whole of Sussex and offers free, confidential talking therapy for people who have symptoms of anxiety or depression. IAPT stands for ‘Improving Access to Psychological Therapy’.

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Mental health and wellbeing support in Brighton and Hove

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Mental Health & Wellbeing Support in Brighton & Hove

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We're a network of local services committed to supporting good mental health and wellbeing in Brighton and Hove.

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Brighton PIP is a charity offering intensive support to expectant parents and those with newborn babies up until the age of three. Through individual therapy or group sessions, they help parents fulfil their child’s needs by understanding the world through their eyes and by tuning into the signals they send out. Their work strengthens the parent-infant relationship, helping to form a loving bond which is crucial for a child’s future well-being.

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Changing the future, one baby at a time... Having a baby is supposed to be one of the happiest and most rewarding experiences of your life. The reality is often quite different. Expecting or caring for a baby can stir up powerful emotions such as anxiety, depression, anger and even hostility. Experiencing these emotions, in addition to sleep deprivation, may leave you struggling to cope or finding it hard to respond to your infant's needs. When such extreme emotions persist over time, you know that you are not just "having a bad day" - it is okay to ask for help.

Brighton PIP is a charity (Registered Charity Number 1177084) offering intensive support to expectant parents and those with newborn babies up until the age of three. Through individual therapy or group sessions, we help parents fulfil their child's needs by understanding the world through their eyes and by tuning into the signals they send out. Our work strengthens the parent-infant relationship, helping to form a loving bond which is crucial for a child's future well-being.

'As a Local MP I am proud to support BrightPIP and the amazing work they do providing support for parents and vulnerable babies in Brighton & Hove. With a misson of ensuring parent-infant psychological therapy (PIP) is freely available to all families in Brighton and Hove who need it, charities like BrightPIP are working towards a future where every baby in our community grows up feeling safe, secure and loved. BrightPIP have seen a 450% increase in referrals over the last few years and, due to their dedication and commitment to help, have been able to meet that demand. I'm so grateful to have lifeline services like this providing care and support for families in my constituency.' Caroline Lucas MP
SUPPORT FOR PARENTS HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
We are proud to be associated with the following organisations

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Brighton Parent Infant Psychological Therapy

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Changing the future, one baby at a time... Having a baby is supposed to be one of the happiest and most rewarding experiences of your life. The reality is often quite different. Expecting or caring for a baby can stir up powerful emotions such as anxiety, depression, anger and even hostility.

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Supporting women in matrescence, a term meaning the transition of a woman into motherhood. Covering Brighton, Hove and Worthing.

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What's on

Attend one of our creative, peer led courses, workshops or groups that support mothers.

About us

Learn more about how we help mothers reconnect with the women they’ve always been.

Donate

We very much welcome any help so we can  support more mothers.

Latest: Thank you to The National Lottery for awarding us £8780 towards our core costs!

Latest scribbles

Uncategorised

Matrescence: A Mother’s Work

I have written before about my journey to Mothers Uncovered and also the desire to shine a light on the lack of care available to women when they become mothers;

Family Life

Supporting all mothers: our groups for mothers of SEND children

One of the Mothers Uncovered facilitators had an idea for a new development of our activities. She had attended many excellent support services with her child with additional needs, but

Giving Birth, Matrescence, The Secret Life of Mothers

Lockdown Mums

When the coronavirus took hold, we moved our activities online to Zoom. It's had pros and cons. One plus is it's enabled mothers from many different places to particpate, or

Matrescence, Family Life, Mother's Choices, Taking time out

How are you today…?’

Following one of our courses, a review was posted from a recent participant which read: ‘Birthing for the first time, in the pandemic, meant I had no means of socialising

Family Life, Loss

Teen Years Incoming….

We have been running Mothers Uncovered since 2008. There are many trying times when your children are small, but somehow you always have a handle on it, because you are

Matrescence: A Mother’s Work

Supporting all mothers: our groups for mothers of SEND children

Lockdown Mums

How are you today…?’

Teen Years Incoming….

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"A truly valuable experience which pulled me from the brink of post natal depression..."

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A support service for families and their networks who may be suffering with perinatal mental illness, including prenatal (antenatal) and postnatal depression.

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Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday 10am - 12pm at the Tarners Childrens centre, BN2 9QE And Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday 2pm -4pm at the old boat community centre, BN1 8GN

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Get in touch with the UHSussex infant feeding team

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Get in touch with the UHSussex infant feeding team

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Football teams made up of bereaved fathers, uncles, brothers and extended family.
Helping bereaved families channel their grief, raise vital funds for the charity, and help break the silence around baby loss.
There is a Local Sands United Brighton & Hove.

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Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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We know that it can be a struggle to talk about how you're feeling after the death of a baby. We hope that by building trust and a common bond, by playing together as a team, many more will be able to break the silence about baby loss and help others to do the same.
Find out how you can get involved below.

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Sands United | Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Sands United is a unique way for bereaved men to come together through a shared love of sport, find a support network, and feel at ease talking about their grief when they're ready. We know that it can be a struggle to talk about how you're feeling after the death of a baby.

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Winston's Wish is the UK's childhood bereavement charity. We support children and their families after the death of someone important.

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Support for men following a bearevment

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Our aim is to support men following bereavement. Grief can cause severe emotional and physical health conditions which are often overlooked and even ignored, especially in men.

It is with personal experience in these issues that the team behind StrongMen has created incredible services to help men going through the toughest of times.

Please take a look at our services, register for support and our e-News and why not fundraise for us too? Or become a corporate partner?

Enjoy looking around our website and contact us at Hello@StrongMen.org.uk should you wish to know more about this amazing, innovative, life changing charity.

Get involved

Find out more about our 'I Remember' campaign

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From peer to peer support, to amazing weekenders - just reach out - we can help you.

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Man2Man is our telephone based peer support service from a trained StrongMen volunteer with first-hand experience of losing a loved one.

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The StrongMen ‘Weekender Retreat’ is our unique premier service, where groups of men have the opportunity to relax and enjoy beautiful remote surroundings whilst engaging in conversation and physical activities in a safe, secure environment with other men with shared experiences.

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Our Network

Our Network is an online platform designed as a social network for health matters.

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Talks

"The feedback we had was staggering. So much positivity and support.... People genuinely feeling like their lives have been changed by the talk"

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Amazon donates 0.5% of purchases of eligible purchases to StrongMen.

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Our aim is to support men following bereavement. Grief can cause severe emotional and physical health conditions which are often overlooked and even ignored, especially in men.

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Families affected by spinabifida and hydrocephalus

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As a member of the Shine family, you'll receive:

FREE access to national and regional support groups

Invitations to national and regional events

A network of friends and peers to help you.

FREE help and advice from our trained specialists

A FREE copy of our twice yearly magazine Together

Option to join our FREE home delivery service

Join the Shine family

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As a member of the Shine family, you'll receive: FREE access to national and regional support groups Invitations to national and regional events A network of friends and peers to help you.

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Domestic abuse support and advice.

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Video title: Refuge's 24-hour, Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Video duration: 1 minute 20 seconds
Description: Information video on what it is like to call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline and who can call it.

Refuge's 24-hour, Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline 'Transcript'

[Background music plays]

Soft down beat music

[Animated sequence]

Animation in hand-drawn style showing a woman in a house standing behind a man on a sofa. The woman looks worried and the man appears angry, a speech bubble comes out of the man's mouth.

[Text displays]

!*!!*!!

[Female voice over]

I was walking on eggshells around my partner didn't know where to turn.

[Animated sequence]

The door in the background slams shut. We zoom in on it and it turns into a smart mobile phone in the women's hand. The phone displays the details of the National Domestic Abuse Helpline Number and a green phone icon. Her finger hovers over the phone icon.

[Text displays]

Refuge National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247

[Female voice over]

I'd read about refuges National Domestic Abuse Helpline, but I was hesitant to call.

[Animated sequence]

The scene transitions to the woman sitting on a couch to the left of the screen, and another woman, the Helpline adviser, sitting on the right on a computer. They are facing each other. The screen is split into two different backgrounds with a window in the background that crosses over both.

[Female voice over]

The woman I spoke to really understood my situation though, it was such a relief just to talk.

[Animated sequence]

The woman begins to smile. The blinds in the window open up to show a sun and both rooms become brighter.

[Animated sequence]

Scene transitions to a top down view of the Helpline worker writing on lined paper.

[Female voice over]

I was reassured that it was a confidential and non-judgmental service run by a charity.

[Text displays]

Confidential

Non-judgemental

[Female voice over]

She said I could ring at any time, even if I just wanted to talk about what I was going through

[Text displays]

Any time

Just talk

[Female voice over]

It's free and open 24 hours a day.

[Text displays]

Free

24 hours

[Animated sequence]

Scene zooms out to show a group of five women of mixed races and ages including the Helpline adviser from the earlier scene.

[Female voice over]

It was comforting to know that the helpline is staffed by an all female team of experts,

[Animated sequence]

Scene zooms out to show smart mobile phone showing an animation of the live chat page on nationaldahelpline.org.uk. The women's finger begins to type.

[Female voice over]

and that I can also contact them using live chat.

[Sound effect]

Keys tapping

[Animated sequence]

The phone fades away and four framed picture swing into view. They show four women of various ages and races, one of who is pictured with a child, including the women from the first scene.

[Female voice over]

I was told that the helpline is open to any woman who is afraid of her partner,

[Sound effect]

Glass cracking

[Animated sequence]

The glass in one of the picture frames cracks

[Text displays]

[Female voice over]

whether you're being physically abused or not

[Animated sequence]

The picture of the woman from the first scene is zoomed in on. She picks up her mobile phone as the frame turns into a circle. Another circular frame, showing the Helpline adviser, comes into view and begins to merge with the woman's frame. The woman and the Helpline worker turn to face each other and hold hands.

[Female voice over]

The Helpline advisor helped me realise I'm not alone and reassured me it wasn't my fault.

[Text displays]

I'm not alone

[Animated sequence]

Scene scrolls across to show the woman looking in a mirror and hugging herself. She begins to smile.

[Female voice over]

That was really empowering and I began to believe in myself again.

She made me feel like I had choices.

[Background music plays]

Music becomes more upbeat

[Animated sequence]

Scene zooms in on mirror until the frame is not visible. The background transitions to show a countryside scene with rolling hills, trees and butterflies. The woman lifts a hot drink to take a sip and closes her eyes.

[Female voice over]

From that moment on, I could see a life free from violence and fear.

That phone call was the beginning of the rest of my life.

[Animated sequence]

The woman opens her eyes and looks up.

[Animated sequence]

Scene fades to show black text on a white background below the Refuge pink and black logo.

[Text displays]

Refuge's Freephone, 24 hour, National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
Call us on 0808 2000 247
Or visit wwww.nationaldahelpline.org.uk for information and support, including our live chat and secure online contact form.

We know our lines are often busy but we really want to hear from you.

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Video title: Refuge's 24-hour, Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline Video duration: 1 minute 20 seconds Description: Information video on what it is like to call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline and who can call it.

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The Hub of Hope brings local, national, peer, community, charity, private and NHS mental health support and services together in one place to help guide people to the right service.

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Health in Mind is a free NHS service for anyone in East Sussex experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties. They have resources, courses and the ability to self refer for talking therapies.

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We all go through low points at times in our lives and it is not unusual to experience symptoms such as stress, anxiety and depression.

Health in Mind is the free NHS Talking Therapies Service for anyone in East Sussex experiencing these kinds of emotional or psychological difficulties.

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FREE Talking Therapies and mental health support service in East Sussex. For people with mild to moderate Anxiety, Depression, Low Mood and Stress. Rapid access courses and 1 to 1 Therapy.

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West Sussex Talking Therapies is a free self referral service that can help you feel better. You can sing up for this service if you are registered with a GP surgery in West Sussex or are an out-of-area student and you are over 18. They offer guided self help, cognitive behaviour therapy, and counselling.

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NHS West Sussex Talking Therapies, for anxiety and depression

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Search our A-Z listing of our clinical services

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The Special Care Baby Unit is located on the 2nd floor of the main building, labelled antenatal on the map.

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Royal Sussex County Hospital (RSCH) site map

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Royal Sussex County Hospital (RSCH) site map

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The Trevor Mann Baby Unit is located on the 14th Floor of the Thomas Kemp Tower.

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A charity offering lifelong support for those born unable to swallow

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TOFS | OA/TOF Support < Charity offering lifelong support for those born unable to swallow

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TOFS is a UK charity offering lifelong support to people born with OA/TOF and who are unable to swallow.

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A UK wide charity providing information and support to families affected by Group B Strep (GBS).

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National charity for families with disabled children

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Contact - for families with disabled children | Contact

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We are Contact, the charity for families with disabled children. We support families, bring families together and help families take action for others.

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For families local to Sussex with disabled children and young people

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For families with disabled children and young people in Sussex - Amaze

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Amaze is a charity that offers information, advice and support to parents and carers of children and young people with special needs or disabilities in Brighton and Hove.

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A unique platform and safe space for dads to have challenging conversations, that now help save lives and create a more emotionally engaged future generation as they see their male role models become better men.

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Dad La Soul is a revolutionary, non-profit, social enterprise made up of an ever-evolving, collaborative team of like-minded revolutionaries committed to social change.

We are a key part of TotRockinBeats C.I.C the UK’s most innovative and exciting intergenerational events and publishing agency.

Since 2016 our volunteer army of teachers, social workers, performers, journalists, film-makers and expert backstage staff, have been battling the causes of social isolation using a unique mixture of arts, tech, music and play to start conversations that matter.

We’ve won awards, been featured on the ITV, BBC News, Radio 4, The Guardian, The Sunday Times and sold out a wealth of theatres, old people’s homes, summer festivals, and 1,000 + capacity venues with our unique mix of music, tech and art.

Who We Are:

We are the dad that commutes all week long – he doesn’t see his kids during the week and hates it.

We are the dad whose only social life revolved around the friends their partners had made on the playground.

We are the stepdad that finds himself struggling as he tries to build relationships with his new family.

We are the dad that is adopting and trying to get to grips challenges that brings.

We are the separated dad who only sees his kids at weekends, and chokes back the feelings that he doesn’t feel allowed to talk about, because ‘real men’ don’t.

We are the dad who isn’t afraid to change a nappy yet finds it hard to take his kids out because all the changing facilities are in women’s toilets.

We are the stay-at-home dad who yearns for time with the boys.

We are the dads that are coming to terms with how to handle our child’s SEND needs.

We are all these dads and more.

Want to find out more about the work we do?

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A unique 10-week therapeutic postnatal group for new mums and their babies.

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A unique 10-week therapeutic postnatal group for new mums and their babies.

Becoming a mum for the first time brings big changes to life and has lots of challenges! That is why Mummyshock aims to provide a supportive space for women to talk, as they begin their journey as new mums, in a secure and friendly environment.

Our goal is to support new mums to grow in confidence and resilience, as they care for their baby-enabling everyone to get the best start.

Mummyshock was co-founded and written by Ellen Baldwin ( Release Counselling and Therapy, Brighton) and Rebecca Mitchell ( Take Action Counselling , London), both qualified Counsellors, and launched in Brighton in 2015. Mummyshock is a project of Release Counselling & Therapy for Women in Brighton & Hove, a Registered Charity (No. 1192772).

To date, over 350 new mums and their babies have attended Mummyshock groups in Brighton & Hove.

Ellen Baldwin explains:

"Following my own personal experience of becoming a first-time mum, over 10 years ago, I realised there were lots of parent & baby groups to go to, but very few spaces where I could be really honest about all the changes and feelings I was experiencing. Fortunately, I was seeing a Counsellor at the time, and she would allow me to bring my little newborn to each session (until my newborn became a crawler, and it became too disruptive!)"

"Having emotional support and a safe space to process all of my feelings was so hugely supportive and holding in the early days of becoming a mum, that a few years later, I decided I wanted to offer the same space for other new mums. I teamed up with my colleague Rebecca Mitchell who had a similar vision, and Mummyshock was born!"

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A unique 10-week therapeutic postnatal group for new mums and their babies. Becoming a mum for the first time brings big changes to life and has lots of challenges! That is why Mummyshock aims to provide a supportive space for women to talk, as they begin their journey as new mums, in a secure and friendly environment.

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Watch a video about us here.

" Not only do the EBA raise money for vital life-saving equipment on the units they also make it just that little bit more comfortable for parents by supplying tea, coffee and biscuits and also the opportunity to talk about their experiences. " Matt, Dad to Finlay who was in TMBU.

The Early Birth Association is a registered charity and we are here to make a positive difference for babies and families and the staff teams who work on the units by providing a wide variety of help and support for TMBU and SCBU in PRH. This ranges from providing practical items for the babies and parents on the units to make their hospital stay more homely and comfortable, to funding vital life saving equipment and research. Please visit our News page to get up to date information on what we are doing.

The EBA is run by a group of volunteer parents and family members who have had premature or unwell babies. You can read more about us and meet the team here. We offer help and support to parents by regularly visiting the TMBU & PRH SCBU to run informal drop in coffee mornings, and by ensuring the units are stocked up with the items and equipment that they need. Please contact us, or ask on the units to find out when the next drop in coffee mornings are.

We're always keen to hear from new supporters and committee members who are interested in helping us. Whether you have a little time to spare or a lot, your skills and time will be much appreciated and you'll have fun and help a fantastic local cause. Please get in touch to talk to us about volunteer supporter roles and opportunities. You can also help us by making a donation and /or holding a fundraising event or activity for us. We're entirely run by volunteers so any money raised is spent directly for benefit of the neonatal units and the babies and families using them.

We'd also like to hear from you if you're a current or recent neonatal unit parent/family member and you have any feedback about things provided by The EBA whilst you were there. We are always looking to improve what we do to support babies and families and your feedback would be very valued so please do contact us.

Please click here to read our statement on the COVID-19 Pandemic.

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The Early Birth Association | Charity | Trevor Mann Baby Unit, Brighton

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Watch a video about us here. " Not only do the EBA raise money for vital life-saving equipment on the units they also make it just that little bit more comfortable for parents by supplying tea, coffee and biscuits and also the opportunity to talk about their experiences.

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The Trevor Mann Baby Unit (TMBU) is based within the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton and is a specialist department for the care of premature and sick new-born babies.

Founded by Dr Trevor Mann in the 1970's, the TMBU has become one of the foremost centres for treating premature and sick new-born babies and has dramatically improved survival rates.

Over 600 babies are treated at the unit every year and we work closely with the TMBU team to support them by providing the vital equipment they need for their life-saving work.

We continue to support the TMBU with ongoing developments in neonatal care, so if you would like to donate towards our support of the TMBU, please click here to go to our dedicated Just Giving fundraising page.

Visit the TMBU website by clicking here.

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Find out more about the Trevor Mann Baby Unit in Brighton - Rockinghorse Children's Charity Supporting sick babies, children and young people throughout Sussex

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Founded by Dr Trevor Mann in the 1970's, the TMBU has become one of the foremost centres for treating premature and sick new-born babies and has dramatically improved survival rates. Over 600 babies are treated at the unit every year and we work closely with the TMBU team to support them by providing the vital equipment they need for their life-saving work.

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ABM are a group of trained volunteers dedicated to supporting breastfeeding mums and their families. We’ve been supporting mums and nurturing families for almost 40 years. We’d love you to join us. Become a member of the ABM and help us continue our work.

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EiSMART resources supporting child development

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EiSMART resources supporting child development

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Use our free age-appropriate play leaflets to support your child or patients' development - available in multiple languages. Access our free podcasts, publications, posters and articles to learn more about EiSMART in practice.

Learn more about the EiSMART approach in our video

Learn more about the EiSMART approach in this video, where Anna Basu and team discuss their paper, 'Early intervention programmes for infants at high risk of atypical neurodevelopmental outcome'.

PLAY VIDEO

Free Resources To Support High Risk Infants

Our Leaflets

Read Our Publications

Early intervention programs for infants at high risk of atypical neurodevelopmental outcome

A presentation of the EiSMART framework published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology.

LISTEN TO PODCAST

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Building A Brighter Future For High Risk Infants: EiSMART is a transdisciplinary approach to early intervention for infants at risk of developmental delays.

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Skip to main content

Chat, play, read!

Babies and young children love it when you chat, play and read with them, even if you think they're too young to understand. You can turn almost anything into a game. And every little thing you do together will help set them up nicely for the day they start school.

Tips to help with speech development

Here are some tips and activities to help your baby develop their speech skills:

try playing with things your baby is interested in, and be at their level physically while you're playing together

as soon as you notice your baby looking or pointing at something, talk about it before their attention moves on to something else - that might be within a couple of seconds for babies

use picture books to introduce your baby to new things - point to the pictures and say what you see

take turns to make noises or speak with your baby, even with young babies, as you can respond to their babbling by copying back the sounds you hear and then waiting for them to take another turn

make reading, singing and playing fun by using lots of actions and different voices

use the same song or book - babies and young children learn a lot when they are familiar with particular songs and books

talk to your baby in short, simple sentences, as it helps them understand what you are saying and makes it easier for them to have a go at copying when they are ready

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Tell us what you think about this page - complete our quick survey to be entered into a prize draw. Terms and conditions apply.

Video: Copy your baby!

Watch this video of a dad copying the noises of his newborn baby. They are having such a good chat!

Ideas to help your baby learn

Here are some ideas to help your child learn by chatting, playing and reading with them.

At bath time you could talk about the water and the sounds it makes.

Spend time talking to your baby face-to-face about anything and everything.

See if your baby can copy you when you stick out your tongue or blink your eyes.

Respond to your baby when they make noises - try saying things like "Wow, you can make loud noises!".

Sing songs and rhymes with actions and lots of repetition, like "Row, row, row your boat".

Play together with fabric books that have different textures and talk to your baby about how the book feels.

Read to your baby.

Learning activities

Your local council may offer activities to help your child improve their communication, language and literacy skills.

Learning more than one language

It's important to talk to your child in the language or languages you use.

A child learning more than one language should babble and say their first words in the same way as a child learning one language.

It is important not to confuse this slight delay with language difficulties - most children quickly catch up.

For more help on languages, have a look at the parent's questions on the National Literacy Trust website.

Help and advice

Your baby's eyes and hearing will be checked while you're still in hospital, or within a few weeks after the birth.

Your midwife will support you for a week or so after your baby is born and then a health visitor will take over. Your first appointment will be around 10 to 14 days, then at 6 to 8 weeks. You can discuss your baby's development and ask any questions you might have.

Ask your health visiting team for support whenever you need it, they will be able to provide tips and advice. Remember, children learn to talk at different ages. If you are worried, speak to your health visitor or nursery key worker. Or contact your local speech and language therapy service for advice.

For more ideas on how you can help your child, visit:

Did you know?

Babies start to recognise their mother's voice during pregnancy. Ask your midwife for tips on helping your baby learn to communicate after they're born.

Sign up for emails

Get more tips and advice on your pregnancy, baby and parenting sent to your inbox.

Sign up now for our pregnancy, baby and toddler guide

Get personalised emails for trusted NHS advice, videos and tips on your pregnancy week by week, birth and parenthood.
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Skip to main content Babies and young children love it when you chat, play and read with them, even if you think they're too young to understand. You can turn almost anything into a game. And every little thing you do together will help set them up nicely for the day they start school.

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Mouth care with mothers milk for your NICU baby

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Why is kangaroo care important for my NICU baby and me. Lacta Med

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What matters to me and my family cot side poster.

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What matters to me and my family cot side poster.

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This poster is used at the cot side and is yours to fill out as you please. It is also used during the family led ward rounds on Thursday in nurseries 2 and 3.

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What matters to me and my family Trent Publications FINAL

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This booklet comes as part of your Welcome Pack and will guide you through your neonatal journey, helping you to become partners in your baby's care.

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A parenting charity, they focus their work on the ‘window of opportunity’ from preconception to a child’s fifth birthday, where the foundations for a healthy and happy life are laid.

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We develop simple, educational and interactive tools to support parents-to-be and new parents so every child in the UK has the best start in life.

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Watch Small Wonders videos here
Supporting you when your baby is sick or premature
More than 1 in every 10 UK babies is born prematurely or sick. As well as professional support there's so much that only you as a parent can do to make a real difference to your baby's chances of growing up fit and strong.

It can be very distressing to be told when you're pregnant that your baby is likely to be born prematurely, however there are so many ways you can make a real difference to their health and wellbeing.

Small Wonders are 12 bite-size films following families and their journey in neo-natal units.
Topics covered:

Birth

First hours

Expressing breast milk

Holding your baby

Your time in hospital

Feeding independently

Preparing for home

First months at home

Twins and triplets

Bereavement

What is Small Wonders?
Seeing how other parents have coped in a similar situation can be comforting. Seeing them become involved in their baby's care can help you feel more confident to get involved in your own baby's care.

The films, endorsed by seven Royal Colleges and many charities, aim to support families of sick and premature babies through their experiences and form the heart of a National Change Programme.

Best Beginnings has supplied Small Wonders DVDs to around 150 neonatal units in hospitals across the UK. The films address sensitive situations, some of which may not be right for you at this time. If in doubt, ask the advice of your hospital staff before watching.

We have worked closely with over 200 families, experts and endorsing organisations to produce these films and the DVD has been endorsed by over 20 organisations, including UNICEF and RCPCH.
How do I watch Small Wonders?
For a quick look at the Small Wonders, click . You can also watch online on the Baby Buddy app , on our YouTube channel, and on the desktop version of Baby Buddy. You can buy copies of the Small Wonders DVD, which comes with the supporting booklet, from our online shop. If you are a parent of a sick or premature baby you can receive a copy of the DVD for free through your hospital.
Ways parents can participate in their baby's care:

Regular skin-to-skin/kangaroo care. Skin-to-skin contact reduces susceptibility to infection and can help to stabilise a baby's temperature and reduce the length of hospital stay. It also improves awareness and helps mother to produce milk

Providing and feeding breast milk to your baby, for example through expressing. Breast milk is very important because it reduces infections and advances mental and emotional development

Providing comforting touch and comfort holding. Time spent holding or touching your sick or premature baby allows you to bond, which increases your baby's responsiveness and lets you get to know one another

Day-to-day care such as nappy changing or bathing your baby

Best Beginnings collaborates with other organisations to ensure that families receive the best possible support. For more information regarding premature and sick babies, visit the Bliss website or call their Family Support Helpline for free on 0500 618140.
What mums and dads think of Small Wonders
"I found the films useful as I am in a similar situation as some of the parents and it gives a good idea of what to expect."

"I have had a premature baby but I learnt a lot from watching these films. There are a MUST for parents who haven't had previous experience of a neonatal unit. Really good!"

"Absolutely fantastic films. Very informative and a great insight into what's to come when having a premature baby. So glad that I got a chance to watch these as it really helped myself and my partner."
Want to know more about Small Wonders?
Visit the Small Wonders Impact and Evaluation page.
To find out how Best Beginnings can work with you in your are and use our Small Wonders resources email Nilu, our Head of Evaluation and Impact at [email protected]

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Supporting you when your baby is sick or premature. Small wonders project include 12 bite-size films following families and their journey in neo-natal units. Learn more here.

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Sensory Beginnings - Ways in which you can help your baby in the neonatal environment

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Sensory Beginnings - Ways in which you can help your baby in the neonatal environment

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Resources for nurturing sensory environment | Sensory Beginnings

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Resources for you in our nurturing sensory environment domains, to support your knowledge of the role of sensory processing.

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Unicef. You and your baby. Supporting love and nurture on the NICU

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Unit App for parents to document their neonatal journey

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Unit App for parents to document their neonatal journey

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It can be easy to rush through life without stopping to notice much.
Paying more attention to the present moment - to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you - can improve your mental wellbeing.

Some people call this awareness "mindfulness". Mindfulness can help us enjoy life more and understand ourselves better. You can take steps to develop it in your own life.

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness involves paying attention to what is going on inside and outside ourselves, moment by moment.

It's easy to stop noticing the world around us. It's also easy to lose touch with the way our bodies are feeling and to end up living "in our heads" - caught up in our thoughts without stopping to notice how those thoughts are driving our emotions and behaviour.

An important part of mindfulness is reconnecting with our bodies and the sensations they experience. This means paying attention to the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the present moment. That might be something as simple as the feel of a banister as we walk upstairs.

Another important part of mindfulness is an awareness of our thoughts and feelings as they happen moment to moment.

How mindfulness helps mental wellbeing

Becoming more aware of the present moment can help us enjoy the world around us more and understand ourselves better.

When we become more aware of the present moment, we begin to experience afresh things that we have been taking for granted.

Mindfulness also allows us to become more aware of the stream of thoughts and feelings that we experience, and to see how we can become entangled in that stream in ways that are not helpful.

This lets us stand back from our thoughts and start to see their patterns. Gradually, we can train ourselves to notice when our thoughts are taking over and realise that thoughts are simply "mental events" that do not have to control us.

Mindfulness can help us deal with issues more productively. We can ask: "Is trying to solve this by brooding about it helpful, or am I just getting caught up in my thoughts?"

Awareness of this kind may also help us notice signs of stress or anxiety earlier and deal with them better.

Mindfulness-based therapies are recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as a way to treat less severe depression.

NICE also recommends that employers make mindfulness available to all employees, to support mental wellbeing at work.

How to be more mindful

Reminding yourself to take notice of your thoughts, feelings, body sensations and the world around you is the first step to mindfulness.

Notice the everyday

As we go about our daily lives, we can notice the sensations of things, the food we eat, the air moving past the body as we walk.

Keep it regular

It can be helpful to pick a regular time, such as a morning journey to work or a walk at lunchtime, during which you decide to be aware of the sensations created by the world around you.

Try something new

Trying new things, such as sitting in a different seat in meetings or going somewhere new for lunch, can also help you notice the world in a new way.

Watch your thoughts

Some people find it very difficult to practise mindfulness. As soon as they stop what they're doing, lots of thoughts and worries crowd in.

It might be useful to remember that mindfulness isn't about making these thoughts go away, but rather about seeing them as mental events that come and go. This can be very hard at first, but with gentle persistence it is possible.

Some people find that it is easier to cope with an over-busy mind if they are doing gentle yoga or walking.

Name thoughts and feelings

To develop an awareness of thoughts and feelings, some people find it helpful to silently name them: "Here's the thought that I might fail that exam" or: "This is anxiety".

Free yourself from the past and future

You can practise mindfulness anywhere, but it can be especially helpful to take a mindful approach if you realise that, for several minutes, you have been trapped in reliving past problems or pre-living future worries.

Different mindfulness practices

As well as practising mindfulness in daily life, it can be helpful to set aside time for a more formal mindfulness practice.

Mindfulness meditation involves sitting silently and paying attention to thoughts, sounds, the sensations of breathing or parts of the body, bringing your attention back whenever the mind starts to wander.

Yoga and tai-chi can also help with developing awareness of your breathing.

Is mindfulness helpful for everyone?

Studies show that mindfulness can help with stress, anxiety and depression. More research is needed to show whether it helps with other mental health conditions.

Many people find mindfulness helpful, but it's not right for everyone. Some people find that it does not help them, or that it can make them feel worse.

More tips for wellbeing

There are other steps we can all take to improve our mental wellbeing. Learn more about the 5 steps to mental wellbeing.

You can also get your free Mind Plan on the Every Mind Matters website for personalised mental wellbeing tips and advice to your email inbox.

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Awareness of ourselves and the world around us - sometimes called mindfulness - can improve our mental wellbeing.

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Oscar's Wish Foundation (OWF) offers comfort and support to parents, family, friends and siblings who have experienced the devastating loss of a precious baby before, during or shortly after birth.

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The experiences you might face on the neonatal unit can affect your emotional well-being and mental health, which can sometimes stay with you beyond your time in hospital.

Bliss is here to support and empower you to be involved in your baby's care, and you are best able to do this when you are supported to look after yourself too.

This information is for mums, dads and all parents to help you find the support that's right for you. Find out more about how being in neonatal care can affect your mental health and where to get support, how to support someone you know, and how other parents have coped and handled their challenges.

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Information about parents' mental health | Bliss

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The experiences you might face on the neonatal unit can affect your emotional well-being and mental health, which can sometimes stay with you beyond your time in hospital. Bliss is here to support and empower you to be involved in your baby's care, and you are best able to do this when you are supported to look after yourself too.

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Supporting your mental health for you and your baby

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Supporting your mental health for you and your baby

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We would be grateful to receive your views on all aspects of our services. The information you give helps us to identify areas where we are doing well and where we need to make improvements. There are feedback cards and a locked box located in the family area which can be filled out whenever and as often as you like during your stay. These can be completed by yourselves or your visitors, please use these for suggestions of improvements or indeed to highlight something positive.
When you are getting ready to be discharged, we will ask you to complete a questionnaire on one of the unit’s iPads, we really do appreciate all the feedback that we receive. You can also access this questionnaire below. Once you are discharged home you will receive a text message from the trust asking for feedback. This is generated by the hospital rather than the unit but is still valuable feedback. All feedback is completely confidential.

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You will need to register your baby’s birth within six weeks, and within the area your baby was born. If you are unable to register the birth in the area they were born due to being transferred to another hospital, you can go to another registry office who can send your details to the correct office. When contacting the registry office please make them aware that your baby was born out of area. If you are married, either parent can register the birth. If you are not married and want the baby to be registered in the father’s name, both parents must attend. The following are the local county offices details, you can book an appointment online or over the phone. If your baby was born at Brighton, you can register the birth at either Brighton or Lewes office.

Brighton and Hove Register Office

Brighton Town Hall

Bartholomew’s Square, Brighton, BN1 1JA

01273 292016

Eastbourne Register Office

Town Hall

Grove Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 4UG

01323 464780

Hastings Register Office

The register Office

Summerfields, Bohemia Road, Hastings, TN34 1EX

01424 726530

Haywards Heath Register Office

County Offices
Oaklands, Oaklands Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 1SU

01243 642122

Lewes Register Office
Southover Grange

Southover Road, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1TP

01273 475589

Worthing Register Office

Portland House,

Richmond Road, Worthing, BN11 1HS

01243 642122

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Some infants may be due their immunisations while an inpatient. Information is available on the unit, and you will find the immunisation schedule in your baby's red book. The link above will take you to the NHS website explaining the schedule and what each immunisation is for.

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Quick guide to your baby's vaccinations

6-in-1 protects against:

Diphtheria - a highly contagious bacterial infection, spread by coughs and sneezes, or close contact with someone with diphtheria.

Hepatitis B - an infection of the liver caused by a virus spread through blood and bodily fluids.

Hib (haemophilus influenzae type b) - bacteria that can cause several serious conditions including meningitis, sepsis (a kind of blood poisoning) and cellulitis.

Polio - a viral infection that can cause paralysis.

Tetanus - bacteria that can enter the body through a wound like a cut or scrape.

Whooping cough (pertussis) - highly contagious bacterial infection of the lungs and airways.

PCV or pneumo jab protects against pneumococcal infections that can lead to pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis.

RV protects against rotavirus infection that can cause diarrhoea and vomiting.

MenB protects against meningitis and sepsis.

Hib/MenC protects against haemophilus influenzae (a bacterium that can cause different serious illnesses) and meningitis C.

MMR protects against measles, mumps and rubella (German measles).

Newborn screening tests

You will be offered newborn screening tests for your baby soon after they are born. These screening tests are recommended by the NHS. This is because results from these tests can help make sure that your baby is given appropriate treatment as quickly as possible if needed.

It is important to think carefully whether you want to have these screening tests. Your decisions will be respected, and health care professionals will support you. Ask your midwife or doctor for more information about newborn screening

The red book

Your baby's Personal Child Health Record is also known as the red book or PCHR. It's used to record your child's weight and height, vaccinations they've been given and other important health information. You can also add information yourself - it's a great way of keeping track of your child's progress. Remember to take it with you when your baby has appointments at the clinic, GP or hospital.

An online version - the eRedbook - is being trialled in some areas in the UK. Sign up via the link if you're interested in participating in the trial or being kept up-to-date with the developments.

Health and development checks

Your baby's health checks are very important - they are an opportunity to check that your baby is developing properly.

They are usually carried out by your health visitor either at home or in your GP surgery, baby clinic or children's centre. These development checks are also a good opportunity for you to raise any concerns you might have.

Your baby's very first health check takes place shortly after they are born, and they'll continue until your child is 2 to 2 1/2 years old.

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These are the routine vaccinations and immunisations your baby needs

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6-in-1 protects against: Diphtheria - a highly contagious bacterial infection, spread by coughs and sneezes, or close contact with someone with diphtheria. Hepatitis B - an infection of the liver caused by a virus spread through blood and bodily fluids.