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Infant feeding support for East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen

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5.9b Infant Feeding Support across East Lancs and BwD_ (1)

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Getting support for your stage of your journey 

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Getting support for your stage of your journey 

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Having a baby born sick or premature can be overwhelming.

You might be expecting a baby at risk of being born premature or sick, on the neonatal unit, just arriving home, or looking after a baby who is growing up. Whatever your stage of the journey, having a baby born sick or premature can be overwhelming.

Our information and support tool will help you to quickly access the support and information you need, whatever you are going through.

Tell us what you need help with, and we'll point you in the right direction.

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Support for your stage of the journey | Bliss

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Having a baby born sick or premature can be overwhelming. You might be expecting a baby at risk of being born premature or sick, on the neonatal unit, just arriving home, or looking after a baby who is growing up. Whatever your stage of the journey, having a baby born sick or premature can be overwhelming.

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I was a bit scared when we found out we were having a baby, obviously happy, but a bit scared and in the beginning I was a bit clueless. The child development part is my favourite bit, but there's things in there, like things about mental health, that I didn't know about and that I didn't know you needed to know about.

Ross, 22

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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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Discharge Feedback please follow the link via QR code 

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Discharge Feedback please follow the link via QR code 

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Easily create surveys and polls to collect customer feedback, measure employee satisfaction, and organize team events.

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Lancashire & South Cumbria Neonatal Family Support - Believe In Miracles | Facebook

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Believe in Miracles is the Official Neonatal Parent Support Group across Lancashire and South Cumbria Hospitals. We provide parents with the opportunity to connect with a fellow parent who...

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How can it help?

Calls with our experienced volunteers can help you to feel less isolated, more confident, and help you to understand and be more involved in your baby's neonatal care.

We know that at the moment many families are not able to all be together with their baby, and that there might be less support for many families with a baby at home.

During this particularly isolating time it can help to know you're not alone. Our volunteers normally see more than 900 families on the neonatal unit each month and they are friendly, supportive people.

When you're ready to talk, they are here for you.

How do I make a video call?

We use Zoom for video calls and we will send you a zoom meeting link and password for a secure and confidential chat. You can join a meeting by clicking the link or by going to join.zoom.us and entering in the meeting ID and password.

If you need help accessing Zoom, there are lots of helpful video resources on Zoom.

Are you ready to book a video call?

Our volunteers are available throughout the week. To arrange a call, simply fill out the short form below or email hello@bliss.org.uk.

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Calls with our experienced volunteers can help you to feel less isolated, more confident, and help you to understand and be more involved in your baby's neonatal care. We know that at the moment many families are not able to all be together with their baby, and that there might be less support for many families with a baby at home.

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Getting support with your mental health 

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Getting support with your mental health 

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We know that many parents struggle with their mental health after having a premature baby or sick baby on the neonatal unit. Whatever you might be feeling, you are not alone. Find out more about how to get help and support.

It's OK to not feel OK

Having a baby is a big life event, which alone can trigger changes in people's emotional well-being. When you have also faced trauma, unexpected challenges and upsetting situations, it is common for you to see some changes in your mental health and how you feel able to cope.

Often parents don't feel they can talk to anyone when they are suffering with their mental well-being on the unit. This can be because they are worried that they'll be seen as 'not coping', or that people might think they're not able to care for their baby. It could also be because they feel guilty, or that they feel they should be worrying about their baby instead of themselves.

You are not alone

Knowing that you are not alone, and that you can talk to someone about what you're experiencing, can be the first step to getting support. Being aware that what you're feeling is common with parents who have been through what you have experienced might give you some comfort.

The first thing you can do to help yourself is to be kind to yourself. There is no expectation of you to handle things in any particular way.

How you feel may change day to day, and throughout your time in neonatal care and once you go home. And it is OK to not feel OK.

Opening up about how you feel is not a sign of weakness - in fact, it takes great strength to face what you are experiencing.

Talking to someone

You may feel that talking to someone makes your feelings feel 'real' and that might feel quite scary to begin with. However, talking to someone can often be a first step to finding what might help you.

It might also feel hard for you to notice or recognise changes in the way you are, so someone close to you might start a conversation about helping you instead.

However these conversations happen, it might be hard at first to talk about what you are facing. You might find it hard to put your feelings into words, or it might be overwhelming to open up. But sharing how you are feeling with someone else will mean that they have the information to be able to help you find the best support, whatever that might be for you.

You may find that over time it becomes easier to talk to someone and be open with how you feel. It is important to take things at your own pace.

Who should I talk to?

You might want to talk to someone very close to you who knows you well, like your partner, a parent or a close friend or family member. Many parents get a lot of support from opening up to someone they know and trust.

It might be that you are facing challenges in a very different way to your partner. That can make it harder for some people to talk to each other.

You could also feel that you don't want to burden someone close to you, or that you don't want to worry them.

Because of this, some people find it easier to talk to someone they don't know so well, like a health professional on your unit or your GP. There might be a counsellor available on your unit for you to make an appointment with.

Hospitals also have chaplaincy services which offer support to parents of any or no religion. Some parents find it useful to talk to someone who is removed from their situation, who can listen to what they're experiencing.

You can ask a nurse on your unit about how you can talk to the chaplaincy team. Someone from the chaplaincy team might also come around the unit to see if you would like to talk.

These are just are a few of the different people you could talk to. You might have other options available to you.

Different people will find support in different places. It might be that you find talking to a few different people will help you in different ways.

Take time to think about who might offer support in a way that's right for you.

You might not feel ready to talk to someone in person yet. There is a lot of online support available which many parents find very helpful in letting them know that they are not alone, and that other people are facing what they are facing. You might want to try:

This kind of support is available day or night, when you need it.

Many dads tell us that they find it hard to reach out for support while their baby is on the neonatal unit. The Bliss Facebook group and Netmums forum are places for all parents, and we encourage everyone, including dads, to access support when it's needed.

The main feeling was shock, like reality was distorted. Time was moving strangely. I remember crying, hoping and wishing. I didn't feel I had control - I had to put all my faith in others.

Support from mental health charities and organisations

There are many charities and organisations there to support you. Here's a list of some that might be helpful to you.

NHS Choices Moodzone - practical information, interactive tools and videos from the NHS to help you look after your mental health

Mind - the mental health charity, providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem

PANDAs Foundation - a support service for families suffering prenatal, antenatal and postnatal mental illnesses

Mental health helplines - a list of mental health helplines from different organisations, collected together by NHS Choices

Young Minds - providing support for young peoples' mental health

Sands - the stillbirth and neonatal death charity, supporting anyone affected by the death of a baby

Twins Trust - providing support for parents with multiples

Child Bereavement UK - a charity supporting families when a child dies or grieves

OK Rehab - a support service for people that may be struggling with alcohol or substance addiction

Do you need urgent help with your mental health?

If you have had thoughts of self-harming or suicide, get help right away. Contact your local A&E department, emergency GP service, or call The Samaritans on 116 123.

The information in this section is due for review in September 2022.

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Getting support with your mental health | Bliss

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We know that many parents struggle with their mental health after having a premature baby or sick baby on the neonatal unit. Whatever you might be feeling, you are not alone. Find out more about how to get help and support.

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NICU SCBU podcast, parents mental health 

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NICU SCBU podcast, parents mental health 

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Neonatal care and parents’ mental health

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In our first episode, we talk to parents about their experiences and challenges with looking after their mental health whilst their baby was in neonatal care. We also talk with a health professional working to support parents. Find out what others have faced, and get tips on h...

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•Columns are titled for ease of search

•Click on the website link for more information on each topic

•Scroll right to see all topics

•Scroll down each column to find additional links

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What does it take to care for the sickest premature babies? 5 live takes a look inside the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Burnley General hospital.

Andy Cox, Consultant Neonatalologist told 5 live: "One in ten babies that is born come to the Neonatal unit. Nobody tells you that in your antenatal class so sometimes is can be shock."

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What does it take to care for the sickest premature babies? 5 live takes a look inside the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Burnley General hospital. Andy Cox, Consultant Neonatalologist told 5 live: "One in ten babies that is born come to the Neonatal unit.

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A stay in neonatal care - An animated guide

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vCreate is a free Secure Video Messaging service that allows clinical staff to record and send video updates to parents with children in Neonatal and Paediatric Units.

Parents access videos of their child when they are away from the unit to receive reassurance of their child's wellbeing and minimise any separation anxiety. It's safe, secure and available on any device.

NHS Trusted Application

Unit staff record short video updates of the child for their parents to watch when away from the Unit. These are recorded on any device with a camera i.e. mobile phone / tablet.

The videos are stored securely on the vCreate platform. Parents register for an account which is then approved by the Unit staff. Once approved, Unit staff assign videos to the appropriate parent account.

Parents login to watch their child's videos at any time and are alerted when new videos are available. A secure video diary builds up over time which the parents have access to 24 hours per day, on any device. The Unit can see when the videos are being watched for auditing purposes.

Unit staff record videos when they have time and not at a prescribed rate. This process will have no impact on their clinical duties and the videos do not contain any sensitive clinical information.

If the child is transferred to a new Unit, the account and videos move with them. When the child leaves the Unit, parents are able to download their child's videos to keep. At this point the Unit delete the videos and remove the account for Data Protection purposes.

Request a Demo

Secure Video Technology for Healthcare

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How Secure Video Messaging Technology Works

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See how the vCreate Secure Video Messaging service works for both Units and parents

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How can I be involved in my babies care 

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How can I be involved in my babies care 

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How can health professionals support my family to get involved?

The nurses, doctors and other health professionals on a neonatal unit can support you to feel more confident in caring for your baby.

They can help by talking through anything that might be stopping you being more involved.

You might like to ask a nurse of other health professional on the unit to support you by:

Showing you how to do your baby's daily cares, like changing nappies, washing them, and dressing them

Giving you clear information about your baby's care, in a way that you understand

Understanding your emotional needs and how staff can support you

Making sure you understand and agree to the treatment your baby needs - this is called consent

Giving you practical information about how the unit works and the policies they have

Giving you any financial help that's available for car parking, hospital food, or other expenses

Showing you where to find further financial support if needed

Showing you where to find support if you are having to travel a long way from home to see your baby

Supporting you to help them, by letting you be a part of life on the unit. For example, many units let parents be there for the health professionals' ward rounds

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Getting involved in your baby's care | Bliss

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Find out how you can be involved in caring for your baby during their stay on a neonatal unit.

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Some ways in which you can become involved with your babies care 

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Some ways in which you can become involved with your babies care 

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This information is 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:

Introduction

The first video from the Small Wonders DVD explains the different levels of care your baby might need, and who might give it. We meet some of the families and hospital staff, and guide you as to how to use this DVD to get support, wherever you are on your journey.

In the second video from the Small Wonders DVD, we meet three families, two who had time to prepare for life in a neonatal unit and one who had very little warning. We see three births, one of which is the birth of triplets, and we follow the babies being prepared for transfer to the neonatal unit.

First hours

The third video from the Small Wonders DVD provides a look into the first hours and days in the neonatal unit and shows you how you, as a parent, can play a very important role in your baby's care.

Expressing breast milk

The fourth video from the Small Wonders DVD shows how mothers can express breast milk for their baby within a few hours of giving birth (if at all possible mothers should express milk within the first 6 hours after giving birth). Starting to express breast milk early and expressing milk often will help your body produce plenty of milk for the weeks and months to come.

Holding your baby

The fifth video from the Small Wonders DVD shows how skin-to-skin contact (also known as 'kangaroo care') can help both you and your baby. You will see families move from being nervous to being able to hold their babies with confidence.

Your time in hospital

The sixth video from the Small Wonders DVD follows families as they begin to feel more confident in caring for their babies on the neonatal unit. You will also see how some of our families cope with their baby's condition getting worse.

Feeding independently

The seventh video from the Small Wonders DVD follows four families as they learn to help their babies feed independently of tubes. Although some babies may go home being fed by tube, most will be feeding independently before they are discharged from hospital, whether they are breastfeeding or formula-feeding.

Preparing for home

The eighth video from the Small Wonders DVD covers what to expect when your baby is ready to leave hospital. We follow five families as they prepare to go home.

First months at home

The ninth video from the Small Wonders DVD follows nine families enjoying the early weeks and months at home with their pre-term baby. They all have different experiences and challenges.

Twins and triplets

The tenth video from the Small Wonders DVD follows four families who had twins or triplets and discovers some some of the joys and challenges that come with having more than one baby.

Bereavement

This video from the Small Wonders DVD is only for families who have to deal with bereavement. We have included it because parents asked us to. Only watch this video if you feel it will be helpful to you and please be aware that everyone's experience of bereavement is different and may not reflect your own. This film follows the journeys of families who lost babies during filming and chose to carry on sharing their experiences to help others.

The twelfth and final video from the Small Wonders DVD shows the families whose journeys we have been following in films 1 to 10 looking back on their experiences and sharing their thoughts and feelings.

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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The Small Wonders videos have been designed to help you on your journey with your sick or premature baby.

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Find out what happens during labour and birth.

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Twins Trust - We support twins, triplets and more...

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Supporting you through every milestone of your journey with twins, triplets or more. From being pregnant with twins, triplets or quads through to parenting twins, triplets or quads, we are here for you.

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Why is your baby being transferred?

Your baby may need to be transferred to another hospital for a number of different reasons. The most common reason is that your baby requires a higher level of care than their local hospital is able to provide. Neonatal units are described as providing different levels of care ranging from level 1 to level 3, with Level 3 providing care for the most unwell babies. An extremely preterm baby, for example, will need to be cared for in a level 3 unit. This map provides information on different units and their level. The hospitals highlighted in red are the Northwest level 3 neonatal units and those in blue are the level 1-2 units.

On some occasions your baby may need to be moved because they have been born with/developed a heart condition or surgical condition that requires surgery or specialist review. In the North West our surgical and cardiac centres are based at Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool and St Mary's Hospital in Manchester. These hospitals are highlighted in green on the map.

Alternatively, your baby may also be transferred to a hospital closer to your home for continuation of care after they have got better. They may also need taking to outpatient appointments before they are ready for discharge.

The Consultant at your local hospital should inform you why your baby is being transferred.

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Why is your baby being transferred? - Connect NW

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Why is your baby being transferred? Your baby may need to be transferred to another hospital for a number of different reasons. The most common reason is that your baby requires a higher level of care than their local hospital is able to provide.

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Our Transport Equipment

Your baby will be transferred in a specialist transport incubator. Our incubators are equipped with all the necessary equipment to provide the appropriate level of care which your baby needs. Our incubators are able to provide mobile intensive care and are equipped for all eventualities and emergency situations.

The incubator is able to keep your baby warm and allows our team to observe your baby closely throughout the transfer. The incubator is designed to lock securely into the ambulance and the team will also use soft Velcro safety harnesses in the incubator, to secure your baby safely in the incubator for the journey.

The Incubator will have a cover over it to maintain your baby's privacy and prevent them from being startled by any bright lights! A small teddy bear or blanket can accompany your baby in their transport incubator if you would like.

Throughout their journey in the ambulance your baby will be continuously monitored. Your baby will be accompanied in the back of the ambulance by a Nurse; and when required, a Doctor or Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (ANNP).

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Our Transport Equipment Your baby will be transferred in a specialist transport incubator. Our incubators are equipped with all the necessary equipment to provide the appropriate level of care which your baby needs. Our incubators are able to provide mobile intensive care and are equipped for all eventualities and emergency situations.

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Feeding your baby on the neonatal unit can be different to what you had planned, but you can still find the best way of feeding for you and your baby. Find out more here.

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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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Welcome to Dadvengers

The posts on the Dadvengers Dad Blog are here to support fathers on their journey through parenthood. The posts are curated by Founder Nigel Clarke and written by you our Dadvengers followers. Whether you are a father, a mother, a soon to be dad, a grandad, grandma, a carer, a parenting professional, a parenting blogger we want you to get involved. Maybe you want to submit a post or perhaps just drop a comment on a post, it doesn’t matter, we want to hear from you. Tell us your experiences, make suggestions, and generally bring your thoughts to the table.

Dad Chats Live

Each week, the Dadvengers take to Instagram Live to discuss various topics. You can view the latest chats below

Last week it was the 2 year anniversary of George…

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Hello! My name is Eli, I am a deaf father of 3 hearing children. My family and I all communicate in British Sign Language (BSL). Sign Language is very important to…

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I have been part of the dadvengers crew for about 6 months now. I have been made so welcome to it. Everyone is so supportive and kind. It’s been a huge help in my life and I will never look back. I am so thankful I am a part of this community. The advice I have received from fellow parents… Read more “Dadvengers is amazing support for all parents and not just dads.”

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Dadvengers has rapidly become a great place for dads to meet and discussing the various challenges us dads face, plus highlight the positive fun moments. The Live Chats are always expertly moderated by Nigel Clarke and he does not shy away from tough issues such as race. There are not enough places for dads to go and chat about fatherhood without judgement… Read more “John Adams – Dadblog UK”

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Welcome to Dadvengers The posts on the Dadvengers Dad Blog are here to support fathers on their journey through parenthood. The posts are curated by Founder Nigel Clarke and written by you our Dadvengers followers. Whether you are a father, a mother, a soon to be dad, a grandad, grandma, a carer, a parenting professional, a parenting blogger we want...

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A Stay in Neonatal Care - Preparing to Take Your Baby Home

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This page contains information that you or parents you know may find useful. Please feel free to share, download and use the content on this page.

Infant crying is normal and it will stop! Babies start to cry more frequently from around 2 weeks of age. Click on this LINK to read more about infant crying.

Comfort methods can sometimes soothe the baby and the crying will stop. Is the baby hungry, tired or in need of a nappy change? Click on this LINK to download some comfort techniques.

It's okay to walk away if you have checked the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you. After a few minutes when you are feeling calm, go back and check on the baby.

Never, ever shake or hurt a baby. It can cause lasting brain damage and death.

Looking for more advice? Download our infographics.

Please note that some may find this video distressing. Viewer discretion is advised

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This page contains information that you or parents you know may find useful. Please feel free to share, download and use the content on this page. Infant crying is normal and it will stop! Babies start to cry more frequently from around 2 weeks of age.

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All babies cry, and some more than others. Crying is your baby's way of telling you they need comfort and care.
Sometimes it's easy to work out what they want, and sometimes it's not.

The most common reasons for crying are:

hunger

a dirty or wet nappy

tiredness

wanting a cuddle

wind

being too hot or too cold

boredom

overstimulation

There may be times of the day when your baby tends to cry a lot and cannot be comforted. Early evening is the most common time for this to happen.

This can be hard for you, as it's often the time when you're most tired and least able to cope.

The amount babies cry tends to peak when they're around 4 to 8 weeks old, then gradually tail off.

How to calm a crying baby

Try some of the following ways to comfort your baby. Some may work better than others:

If you're breastfeeding, let your baby suckle at your breast.

Having some gentle noise in the background may help distract your baby.

Some older babies like to use a bit of cloth or a blanket as a comforter.

Hold your baby or put them in a sling so they're close to you. Move about gently, sway and dance, talk to them and sing.

Rock your baby backwards and forwards in the pram, or go out for a walk or a drive. But limit how long your baby sleeps in a car seat to up to 30 minutes for newborns and up to 2 hours for babies. Even if they wake up again when you stop, at least you'll have had a break.

Find something for them to listen to or look at. This could be music on the radio, a CD, a rattle, or a mobile above the cot.

Try stroking your baby's back firmly and rhythmically, holding them against you or lying face downwards on your lap.

Undress your baby and massage them gently and firmly. Avoid using any oils or lotions until your baby's at least a month old. Talk soothingly as you do it and keep the room warm enough. Some health centres and clinics run baby massage courses. For information, ask your midwife or health visitor.

Try a warm bath. This calms some babies instantly, but makes others cry even more.

Sometimes too much rocking and singing can keep your baby awake. You might find lying them down after a feed will help.

Ask your health visitor for advice.

Crying during feeds

Some babies cry and seem unsettled around the time of a feed. If you're breastfeeding, you may find that improving your baby's positioning and attachment helps them settle.

You can go to a breastfeeding drop-in group and ask for help if there's one available in your local area.

The Breastfeeding Network's website can provide information on the nearest group to you.

You can also ask your health visitor for advice.

Crying during feeds can sometimes be a symptom of reflux, a common condition where babies bring back milk after feeds.

Speak to your health visitor or GP for more information and advice.

If your baby cries constantly

There are several reasons that can cause a baby to cry excessively.

It can be exhausting if you have tried everything and nothing seems to comfort your baby.

Colic

Excessive crying could be a sign that your baby has colic. Everyone agrees that colic exists, but nobody knows what causes it.

Some doctors think it's a kind of stomach cramp. The crying sounds miserable and distressed, and stops for a moment or two, then starts up again, which suggests it could be caused by waves of stomach pain.

The crying can go on for some hours. There may be little you can do except try to comfort your baby and wait for the crying to pass.
Get tips for coping with colic
Crying and illness

If your baby's crying constantly and you cannot console or distract them, or the cry does not sound like their normal cry, it can be a sign they're ill.

Or they may be ill if they're crying and have other symptoms, such as a high temperature. If this is the case, contact your health visitor, GP or call NHS 111.

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance if your baby:

has a fit (seizure or convulsion)

has blue, mottled, ashen (grey) or very pale skin

is unresponsive, floppy or not waking up as easily as usual

breathes rapidly or makes a throaty noise while breathing, or seems to be working hard to breathe, perhaps sucking in their stomach under their ribcage

is being violently sick a lot (projectile vomiting)

has a high temperature, but their hands and feet feel cold

has a spotty purple-red rash anywhere on the body - this could be a sign of meningitis

Find out the signs of serious illness in your baby
Trust your instincts. You know what's different or worrying behaviour in your baby.

Getting help with a crying baby

You can talk to a friend, your health visitor or GP, or contact the Cry-sis helpline free on 0800 448 0737. It is open 9am to 10pm, 7 days a week.

Cry-sis can put you in touch with other parents who have been in the same situation.

You can also visit the Cry-sis website for information on coping with crying babies.

If you decide to talk to your health visitor or GP, it can help to keep a record of how often and when your baby cries.

For example, this might be after every feed or during the evening. This can help your health visitor or GP to work out if there's a particular cause for the crying.

Keeping a record can also help you identify the times when you need extra support. You could think about possible changes to your routine.

There may be times when you're so tired and angry you feel like you cannot take any more. This happens to a lot of parents, so do not be ashamed to ask for help.

If you do not have anyone who can take care of your baby for a short time and the crying is making you stressed, put your baby in their cot or pram, make sure they're safe, close the door, go into another room and try to calm yourself down.

Set a time limit - for example, 10 minutes - then go back.

Never shake your baby

No matter how frustrated you feel, you must never shake your baby. Shaking moves their head violently and can cause brain damage.

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A crying baby can be exhausting and it can be hard to know what they need, especially in the early days. Use these tips to help soothe them.

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How to Give Baby CPR - First Aid Training - St John Ambulance

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What to do if Your Baby is Choking - First Aid Training - St John Ambulance

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Mindsmatter :: Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust

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We are a well-being service offering a range of free psychological therapies to people aged 16 and over in Lancashire. We are part of the nationwide Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service, including counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy and online therapy delivered by Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust.

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Public Health England ( PHE) created this information on behalf of the NHS. In this information, the word 'we' refers to the NHS service that provides screening.

This leaflet is for parents of babies who are in a special care baby unit, neonatal intensive care unit or paediatric intensive care unit.

We understand this is likely to be a stressful time for you and your family. This information will help you and your health professionals to talk through how newborn screening tests fit into all the other parts of your baby's care. This information should support, but not replace, discussions you have with health professionals.

It explains some important differences in the way newborn screening tests are carried out for babies in special care baby units. It is important you also read the Screening tests for you and your baby booklet that you received during your pregnancy. This explains all the screening tests offered for newborn babies.

The screening tests covered here should ideally be completed before you take your baby home.

If your baby was born very prematurely, born before 28 weeks, you may need to wait a few weeks for some tests. Newborn hearing screening testing can only happen once a baby reaches 34 weeks corrected age.

Corrected age is the number of weeks after becoming pregnant, rather than the number of weeks after birth.

For example, a baby born after 28 weeks of pregnancy would need to wait 6 weeks after birth to have their newborn hearing screening test.

Your baby's health care team will be able to answer any questions you might have.

It is your choice whether or not to have any of the tests described in this booklet.

The NHS Screening Programmes use your personal information to ensure you are invited for screening at the right time. PHE also uses your information to ensure you receive high quality care. You can find out more about how your information is used and protected, and your options.

1. Eyes, heart, hips and testes (physical examination)

1.1 The purpose of the screening test

All babies should be offered a newborn physical examination after birth. This includes examination of the eyes, heart, hips and testes (in boys).

1.2 How the test is different

The newborn physical examination screening tests will not be done until your baby is well enough. If you choose to have this screening test, the examination should take place before your baby goes home.

You will be offered a further examination when your baby is 6 to 8 weeks of age, as some conditions can become apparent later.

2. Blood spot

2.1 The purpose of the screening test

The test is to find out if your baby has any of 9 rare but serious health conditions. These are:

sickle cell disease (SCD)

cystic fibrosis (CF)

congenital hypothyroidism (CHT)

6 inherited metabolic diseases (IMDs):

phenylketonuria (PKU)

medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD)

maple syrup urine disease (MSUD)

isovaleric acidaemia (IVA)

glutaric aciduria type 1 (GA1)

homocystinuria (pyridoxine unresponsive) (HCU)

Early treatment can improve your baby's health and prevent severe disability or even death. If you or a family member already has one of these conditions, please tell your baby's health care team straight away.

2.2 Why screening is different for babies in special care units

The blood spot sample is usually taken when a baby is 5 days old. However, the timing is different when a baby is ill and in a special care baby unit.

2.3 How the test is different

The blood spot sample needs to be taken as soon as possible after your baby is born to screen for SCD. This is in case your baby needs a blood transfusion - the test for SCD would be inaccurate if a sample for screening is taken after a transfusion.

Another blood spot sample to screen for the other conditions will then be taken when your baby is 5 days old. If your baby has a transfusion, this test might be delayed until they are 8 days old.

If your baby is born before 32 weeks of pregnancy, another sample should be taken to test for CHT. This should happen when your baby is 28 days old or when you take your baby home, whichever comes first.

2.4 Getting my results

You should receive your baby's results by letter or from your health visitor within 6 weeks.

3. Hearing loss

3.1 The purpose of the screening test

To find babies who have a permanent hearing loss so that support and advice can be offered right from the start.

3.2 Why screening is different for babies in special care units

1 to 2 babies in every 1,000 are born with a permanent hearing loss in one or both ears. This number increases to about 1 in every 100 babies who have spent at least 48 hours in a special care unit.

Your baby will need to be at least 34 weeks corrected age before having their hearing screening test. The test can be carried out up to 3 months of age and should be done when treatment is complete and your baby is well enough.

Your baby's health care team will advise the most appropriate time for your baby's test to take place.

3.3 How the test is different

If your baby has been in a special care baby unit for more than 48 hours, they will need to have 2 types of hearing screening tests.

These are an AOAE (automated otoacoustic emission) test and an AABR (automated auditory brainstem response) test.

If the test results do not show a clear response, an appointment will be made with a hearing specialist in the audiology department. About 9 babies in every 100 cared for in a special care unit for more than 48 hours do not show a clear response to the screening tests. It is very important that you attend the appointment in case your baby has a hearing loss.

Finding out about hearing loss early gives babies a better chance of developing language, speech and communication skills.

Screening does not pick up all types of hearing loss, so it is important to check your child's hearing as they grow up. If you have any concerns about your child's hearing, you should tell your health visitor or GP.

4. Infectious diseases

4.1 The purpose of the screening test

During pregnancy, we offer and recommend women a blood test to screen for infectious diseases like hepatitis B, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and syphilis.

Premature babies born to mothers who have tested positive for hepatitis B will need special monitoring and care.

4.2 How follow-on care is different

Babies born weighing less than 1500g need immunoglobulin (antibodies that fight infection) and the hepatitis B vaccination.

It is very important premature babies have all 6 recommended hepatitis B vaccinations at the right age. Very premature babies (born before 28 weeks) may need their breathing monitored for 2 to 3 days after their first vaccination.

Vaccinations should take place:

within 24 hours at birth (and immunoglobulin)

at 4 weeks of age

at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age (part of routine childhood immunisation schedule)

at one year of age

Babies also need to have a blood test at their final vaccination at one year to check if infection has been avoided.

5. More information

Details of organisations that can provide support for parents when their baby needs special care are available on NHS.UK.

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Screening tests for you and your baby: babies in special care units

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Public Health England ( PHE) created this information on behalf of the NHS. In this information, the word 'we' refers to the NHS service that provides screening. This leaflet is for parents of babies who are in a special care baby unit, neonatal intensive care unit or paediatric intensive care unit.

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Public Health England (PHE) created this information on behalf of the NHS. In this information, the word ‘we’ refers to the NHS service that provides screening.

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This information was created on behalf of the NHS. In this information, the word 'we' refers to the NHS service that provides screening.

This short video explains blood spot screening in newborn babies.
Newborn blood spot video
Blood spot screening is recommended by the NHS.

1. Purpose of screening

To find out if your baby has any of 9 rare but serious health conditions.

Early treatment can improve your baby's health and prevent severe disability or even death. If you, the baby's father, or a family member already has one of these conditions, please tell your health professional straight away.

2. About these conditions

2.1 Sickle cell disease

About 1 in 2,800 babies born in the UK has a sickle cell disease ( SCD). These are serious, inherited blood diseases. They affect haemoglobin, a part of the blood that carries oxygen around the body. Babies who have SCD will need specialist care throughout their lives.

People with SCD can have attacks of severe pain, get serious, life-threatening infections and are usually anaemic (their bodies have difficulty carrying oxygen). Babies with SCD can receive early treatment, including vaccinations and antibiotics, which, along with support from their parents, will help prevent serious illness and allow them to live a healthier life.

2.2 Cystic fibrosis

About 1 in 2,500 babies born in the UK has cystic fibrosis ( CF). This inherited condition affects the digestion and lungs. Babies with CF may not gain weight well and frequently have chest infections. Babies with CF can be treated early with a high-energy diet, medicines and physiotherapy. Although children with CF may still become very ill, early treatment can help them live longer, healthier lives.

2.3 Congenital hypothyroidism

About 1 in 2,000 babies born in the UK has congenital hypothyroidism ( CHT). Babies with CHT do not have enough of the hormone thyroxine. Without thyroxine babies do not grow properly and they can develop permanent serious physical problems and learning disabilities.

Babies with CHT can be treated early with thyroxine tablets and this will allow them to develop normally.

It is important to let your health professional know if you have a family history of a metabolic condition. Babies are screened for 6 inherited metabolic diseases (IMDs).

These are:

phenylketonuria (PKU)

medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD)

maple syrup urine disease (MSUD)

isovaleric acidaemia (IVA)

glutaric aciduria type 1 (GA1)

homocystinuria (pyridoxine unresponsive) (HCU)

About 1 in 10,000 babies born in the UK has PKU or MCADD. The other conditions are rarer, occurring in 1 in 150,000 babies to 1 in 300,000 babies.

Babies with these inherited conditions cannot process certain substances in their food. Without treatment babies with some of these conditions can become suddenly and seriously ill. The symptoms of the conditions are different; some may be life threatening or lead to severe developmental problems.

They can all be treated by a carefully managed diet, which is different for each condition and may include additional medicines.

3. The screening test

When your baby is 5 days old the health professional will prick your baby's heel using a special device to collect some drops of blood onto a card. Occasionally this may be later than 5 days. The heel prick may be uncomfortable and your baby may cry. You can help by making sure your baby is warm and comfortable, and by cuddling and feeding them.

Sometimes, a second blood spot sample is required later on. If so, the reason will be explained. It does not necessarily mean there is something wrong with your baby.

4. Safety of the test

There are no known risks to your baby associated with having the test.

5. Screening is your choice

Screening your baby for all these conditions is recommended because it could save your baby's life but it is not compulsory. You can choose to have screening for SCD, CF or CHT individually but can only choose to have screening for all 6 IMDs or none at all. If you do not want your baby screened for any of the conditions or have any concerns about the test, please talk to your midwife.

Early screening is best as treatment can be started as soon as possible if needed. But if you choose not to have screening, your baby can have the test later if you change your mind. Babies can be screened up to 12 months of age for all the conditions except CF (only up to 8 weeks of age).

6. Possible results

Most babies will have normal results indicating that it is unlikely that they have any of the conditions. A small number of babies will screen positive for one of the conditions. This does not mean they have the condition but they are more likely to have it. They will be referred to a specialist for further tests.

Screening for cystic fibrosis finds some babies who may be genetic carriers of the condition. These babies may need further testing. Screening does not detect all carriers.

Occasionally, other medical conditions might be identified through these screening tests. For example, babies with beta thalassaemia major (a serious blood disease) will usually be detected. These children also need to be referred for lifelong treatment and care.

Screening for sickle cell disease also finds babies who are genetic carriers of these or other red blood cell diseases. Carriers are healthy although they can experience some problems in situations where their bodies might not get enough oxygen, for example, if they are having an anaesthetic.

7. Getting my results

You should receive the results from a health professional by the time your baby is 6 weeks old. The results should be recorded in your baby's personal child health record ('red book'). Please keep this safe and bring it with you to any further appointments. You will be contacted sooner if there is thought to be any problem with your baby.

8. My baby's blood spot card and data after screening

After screening blood spot cards are stored for at least 5 years and may be used:

to check the result or for other tests recommended by your doctor

to improve the screening programme

for research to help improve the health of babies and their families in the UK (this will not identify your baby and you will not be contacted)

In addition, there is a small chance that researchers may want to invite you or your child to take part in information gathering linked to the newborn blood spot screening programme. Researchers undertaking any additional studies would explain what is being done and you would then be asked if you wish to take part in that study. Please let your midwife know if you do not want to be contacted to discuss taking part in any additional information gathering.

All use of the blood spots is governed by the code of practice. Any research will have been approved by an independent research ethics committee.

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This information was created on behalf of the NHS. In this information, the word 'we' refers to the NHS service that provides screening. This short video explains blood spot screening in newborn babies. Newborn blood spot video Blood spot screening is recommended by the NHS.

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Many extremely preterm babies will develop some degree of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) with the majority of cases never progressing beyond mild disease, resolving spontaneously without treatment. However, a small proportion develop potentially severe ROP which can be detected through retinal screening. If untreated, severe disease can result in serious vision impairment and consequently all babies at risk of sight-threatening ROP should be screened on time.

About the guideline

This guideline is an update of the 2008 UK Screening and Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity, which was originally developed by RCPCH, RCOphth, BAPM and Bliss. It was reviewed in 2013 and subsequently updated in 2022. It will next be reviewed in 2027.

For the 2022 update, the topics were reviewed and are presented separately:

Screening of ROP: RCPCH updated this topic, including:

These can all be downloaded below.

Treatment of ROP: RCOphth has updated this topic, including:

The full guideline

The executive summary

The information leaflet for parents and guardians

These are on the RCOphth website.

The RCPCH guideline is NICE accredited and developed in accordance with our guideline development process manual, Setting standards for development of clinical guidelines in paediatrics and child health (2020).

You can get permission to reuse RCPCH published content quickly and easily.

Summary of changes to guideline on screening of ROP

The guideline takes into account the significant changes in both the clinical and organisational aspects of neonatal care that have taken place over the previous 14 years.

Screening criteria: The gestational age criterion for screening has been reduced from 32 weeks to 31 weeks as based on more recent published evidence. The birthweight criterion of less than 1501g has not changed. It is estimated that this will lead to a reduction in the number of babies needing screening of about 13%.

Timing of first examination: Precise timing of the first examination is stated.

Preparation for screening: Greater detail is included related to the preparation for screening, including consent, comfort care and pain relief during the screening examination. Our information leaflet for parents and carers has been fully revised.

Follow up examinations: When necessary, the importance of attending follow-up examinations is emphasised. The need for appropriate resuscitation equipment and trained staff is stated for outpatient examinations.

Referral to treatment: Details of when to refer for treatment are specified.

Record keeping and communications with others: There is emphasis throughout the guideline on record keeping and communication both with parents/carers and between professionals as well as the role of a ROP service coordinator.

Updated tools: A new algorithm for observations and a screening record form are included.

Comprehensive appendices: These give full details of the guideline scope, methodology and development.

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Screening of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) - clinical guideline

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ROP is one of the few causes of childhood visual disability that is largely preventable. This evidence-based guideline has been updated by RCPCH in collaboration with Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) and British Association of Perinatal Medicine (BAPM) in March 2022.

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Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Sands | Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Sands works to support anyone affected by the death of a baby; improve the care bereaved parents receive; and create a world where fewer babies die.

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Parent Survey at Discharge - Info for Parents copy

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‎IFDNC is an innovative smartphone app that helps parents through their NICU journey in the ethos of family integrated care. The app offers an up to date and comprehensive educational material, developmental timeline and different diary functions to document the neonatal journey and memories. Our u…

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First Steps Nutrition Trust is an independent public health nutrition charity. We endeavour to fill practical and policy-relevant information gaps and provide resources for health workers supporting eating well from pre-conception to five years.

Our Mission

To influence policies which enable the safe, appropriate and optimal feeding of infants and young children in the UK, and to protect them from commercial interest.

To ensure that the importance of good nutrition from pre-conception to age five remains on everyone's agenda.

To provide conflict of interest-free information on infant milks marketed in the UK, and to promote better regulation and marketing of breastmilk substitutes.

To provide resources for health workers to support them in their work with pregnant women and young families.

Our Resources:

Are put together by nutrition experts and are regularly updated.

Can be used in Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative accredited settings.

Are available as free pdf downloads for use by anyone promoting better public health on a not-for profit basis.

Everyone who works at First Steps Nutrition Trust feels passionately about the need for better information and support for good nutrition - and good food - from pre-conception to five years.

First Steps Nutrition Trust is supported by generous individual donations and conflict of interest free grants. First Steps Nutrition Trust does not work with organisations or individuals that work with, or take funding from, the breastmilk substitute industry and we reserve the right not to sell them our subsidised resources.

First Steps works with and supports a number of organisations including Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative, the Baby Feeding Law Group, the Obesity Health Alliance, the Children's Food Campaign and the APPG on Infant Feeding and Inequalities.

First Steps Nutrition Trust host and regularly update their partner site infantmilkinfo.org which contains comprehensive information about infant milks (for 0-12 month olds) available on the UK market.

To find out more about what First Steps Nutrition Trust has done over the last 10 years and what we hope to do in the future, you can read our summary report here.

Jamie Oliver MBE

Jamie Oliver is a chef and campaigner who has a particular interest in good food for children, and food education. He has been given awards from the Harvard School of Public Health and the RCGP for his work on tackling childhood obesity. Jamie also set up Food Revolution to make practical food education a compulsory part of every school curriculum across the world.

Patti Rundall OBE

Patti Rundall is the Policy Director at Baby Milk Action and co-chair of IBFAN's Global Council. She is an indefatigable campaigner for safe infant feeding and the protection of all infants from irresponsible marketing of breastmilk substitutes as well as a global campaigner for conflict of interest free public health policy making.

Dr Vicky Sibson

DIRECTOR

Vicky is a Public Health Nutritionist with a PhD from University College London. She started off her career in the humanitarian world and worked for several international NGOs both overseas and as a head office adviser for over a decade, during which time she gained a particular interest in infant and young child nutrition. Vicky joined First Steps Nutrition Trust shortly after having her first baby and keen to bring her international experience to bear in the UK. She is excited to take on the role of Director and passionate about protecting, promoting and supporting optimal feeding for all infants and young children.

vicky@firststepsnutrition.org

Susan Westland

Senior Nutritionist

A registered public health nutritionist, I have public health nutrition experience across the charity sector, universities and in government agencies. I have a particular interest in promoting good nutrition in infancy and childhood, and in food quality and sustainability. I have co-authored all the infant milk reports produced by First Steps over the past 7 years, as well as a number of other publications on sustainable diets and baby food composition. I currently work three days a week at First Steps Nutrition Trust collating data on food and drink products marketed for infants and young children and reviewing evidence for compositional and health claims made.

Katie Pereira-Kotze

Senior Nutritionist

Katie is a dietitian by training and has worked in the field of public health nutrition since 2005. She has a Master's in Nutrition from Stellenbosch University and is currently completing her PhD in Public Health through the University of the Western Cape. Katie has worked in government, research, and academia and most of her previous work was in South Africa, but she relocated to the UK in 2020. Katie has a special interest in and looks forward to continuing advocating for the protection, promotion and support of optimal maternal, infant and young child nutrition at First Steps Nutrition Trust.

Rachel Childs

NUTRITIONIST

Rachel is a Public Health Nutritionist with an MSc from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. She has worked for international NGOs for a number of years, primarily on tools that assess access to nutritionally appropriate diets in different contexts. More recently she has worked as a primary school teacher and is passionate about ensuring that every child in the UK has access to the nutrition needed to grow up healthy, strong and able to learn. Rachel is looking forward to working with the First Steps Nutrition Trust team to influence policy and practices that benefit infants and young children in the UK.

Siân Clarke

Administrator

Prior to joining us in February 2020, Siân had spent much of her career working in the organic food industry and volunteering with charity and community-led food projects. With an MSc in Sustainable Food and Natural Resources and a BSc in Environmental Science, Siân is passionate about ethically sourced, good food and dedicated to supporting campaigns for positive food system change.

Siân looks after our administrative tasks, including: updating the website; sending out our monthly newsletter; and (importantly!) processing payroll for our small team.

First Steps Nutrition Trust has six Trustees

Dr Marko Kerac

Dr Marko Kerac is a clinical associate professor and programme director for the 'Nutrition for Global Health' MSc at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Initially trained in paediatrics, he did his PhD based in Malawi before finishing specialty training in public health in London. His research focuses on severe malnutrition in infants and children. He particularly enjoys the challenges of GRIPP (Getting Research into Policy/Practice): working in multidisciplinary groups from the very start of a project to together identify high-priority problems and develop practical (and thus hopefully scalable!) solutions.

Dr Helen Crawley

Dr Helen Crawley founded First Steps Nutrition Trust in 2011 and was the charity's Director until 2021. A dietitian and public health nutritionist with over 30 years' experience in public health nutrition across government, academia, research and the charitable sector, she created First Steps with the purpose of providing clear, evidence-based and conflict of interest free information and resources on eating well in the early years.

Helen was previously the Science Director for Caroline Walker Trust, where she wrote national guidance for food in schools and early years settings. She also held an honorary research fellow post at City University London, sat on the WHO scientific and technical working group on inappropriate marketing of foods to infants and children, the CODEX e-working group on standards for follow-up formula, the NICE panel on maternal and child nutrition and the Unicef Baby Friendly UK designation committee. Helen also sat on the UK Food Poverty Alliance, the London Food Board, chaired the London Boroughs Food Group and sat on the Healthy Early Years London strategy group.

Having dedicated 10 years of her illustrious career to developing First Steps Nutrition Trust in to what it is today, Helen stepped down in 2021 to pursue other projects.

part-time Administrator (0.4 FTE)
The Opportunity
First Steps Nutrition Trust is recruiting a part-time administrator two days a week (0.4 FTE). You will manage the financial accounts, administration and communications for the charity, playing a critical role in supporting our small team. The role requires someone who is interested to learn new skills, can work independently, and show initiative.

Some of the key administrative functions include:

Managing the monthly payroll system

Keeping accounts spreadsheets up to date

Writing a monthly financial report for the trustees

Preparing and paying invoices

Organising meetings and taking minutes

Updating our website (using Squarespace)

Designing and mailing our monthly newsletter (using Mailchimp)

Other communications activities, including managing our Facebook account

Managing sales of our printed resources

Managing the Administrator's email inbox, responding to any queries or requests

Person specification
Confidence to work independently and show initiative are key as you will be the sole administrative staff member. Experience in a similar role would be beneficial.

Essential

Experience in financial administration systems e.g. processing payroll, maintaining accurate accounts records, financial reporting

Excellent communication skills

Excellent IT skills and ability to learn new software quickly

Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail

Experience and willingness to learn new systems and processes as required

An interest in the objectives of First Steps Nutrition Trust

Desirable

Experience in digital communications using a range of social media channels.

Experience updating websites - using Squarespace and Mailchimp software packages a plus

Experience organising meetings and taking minutes

Full job description available here.
What we can offer:

A friendly and supportive team working environment

A salary of £31 - £34K pro rata, depending on experience

Pension: 5% employer contribution.

25 days leave and 3 closure days, plus public holidays

Flexible and hybrid working: we have an office in New Covent Garden Market, London, SW8 5EL and our team works together in the office one day a week and from home the rest of the time.

Additional information:

The application deadline is midnight on Wednesday, 8th of March, however, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will close early if the right candidate is found. Ideally we would like someone in post in early April.

If you have any questions about the job, please contact the Director: Dr Vicky Sibson, Vicky@firststepsnutrition.org

To apply:
Applications via email to admin@firststepsnutrition.org.

Please include:

· A cover letter detailing how you meet the person specification

· Your CV
**We will start processing applications as they are submitted, so early applications are advised**
Deadline for applications: midnight on the 8th of March.

Prefered start date: early April.

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First Steps Nutrition Trust is an independent public health nutrition charity. We endeavour to fill practical and policy-relevant information gaps and provide resources for health workers supporting eating well from pre-conception to five years. To influence policies which enable the safe, appropriate and optimal feeding of infants and young children in the UK, and to protect them from commercial interest.

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My advice is this: Don't be afraid to seek (and accept) help. There's no weakness in needing someone to talk to or a shoulder to cry on. This is the most testing of times, and your emotions will fluctuate wildly. It's not your fault, and it's not unexpected. There are going to be tough days - probably many of them. Some tougher than others. It's not a normal experience, but it's normal for the situation you're in.

Speak to friends and family if you can; talk to your partner. Confide in the nurses and doctors if you're struggling. Access counselling or reach out to charities like Bliss if you think you can't cope. I found the information on the Bliss website really helpful. Ask your employer for support or additional leave if you feel work is beyond you right now. I believe all of these things helped me get through those nine weeks, and I believe they can help you, too.

You might feel wounded right now; that's totally normal. But like all wounds, this can heal with time. You'll always have the scars to remember the neonatal journey, but I hope one day that you can come through the other side and look back like I can now.

It might not always seem like it in the next few days, weeks and months. But there can be a brighter future ahead for you and your family.

With warmest wishes,
Carl

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An Open Letter to NICU Dads - Carl's story | Bliss

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My advice is this: Don't be afraid to seek (and accept) help. There's no weakness in needing someone to talk to or a shoulder to cry on. This is the most testing of times, and your emotions will fluctuate wildly. It's not your fault, and it's not unexpected.

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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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Children must normally use a child car seat until they're 12 years old or 135 centimetres tall, whichever comes first.

Children over 12 or more than 135cm tall must wear a seat belt.

You can choose a child car seat based on your child's height or weight.

Height-based seats

Height-based seats are known as 'i-Size' seats. They must be rear-facing until your child is over 15 months old. Your child can use a forward-facing child car seat when they're over 15 months old.

You must check the seat to make sure it's suitable for the height of your child.

Only EU-approved height-based child car seats can be used in the UK. These have a label showing a capital 'E' in a circle and 'R129'.

Weight-based seats

The seat your child can use (and the way they must be restrained in it) depends on their weight.

Only EU-approved weight-based child car seats can be used in the UK. These have a label showing a capital 'E' in a circle and 'ECE R44'.

You may be able to choose from more than one type of seat in the group for your child's weight.

0kg to 10kg

0

Lie-flat or 'lateral' baby carrier, rear-facing baby carrier, or rear-facing baby seat using a harness

0kg to 13kg

0+

Rear-facing baby carrier or rear-facing baby seat using a harness

9kg to 18kg

1

Rear- or forward-facing baby seat using a harness or safety shield

15kg to 25kg

2

Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield

22kg to 36kg

3

Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield

Manufacturers can now only make booster cushions approved as group 3. This won't affect any existing booster cushions in group 2 and you'll still be able to use them.

Fitting a child car seat

You must only use a child car seat if your car's seat belt has a diagonal strap, unless the seat is either:

specifically designed for use with a lap seat belt

fitted using ISOFIX anchor points

You must also:

deactivate any front airbags before fitting a rear-facing baby seat in a front seat

not fit a child car seat in side-facing seats

Children with disabilities or medical conditions

The same rules apply for children with disabilities or medical conditions, but they can use a disabled person's seat belt or a child restraint designed for their needs.

A doctor can issue an exemption certificate if a child is unable to use a restraint or seat belt because of their condition.

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The rules for child car seats and booster seats - height, weight, age, type of vehicle, car, minibus, licensed taxi

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Our infant feeding web page

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Need help with feeding?
Community Midwives:
Blackburn with Darwen and Hyndburn and Ribble Valley: 01254 733434

Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale: 01282 803434
Health Visiting teams:
East Lancashire: 0300 247 0040

Blackburn with Darwen: 01254 585000
National Breastfeeding Helpline (9:30am-9:30pm):
0300 100 0212 - includes English, Polish and Welsh translations

0300 330 5469 - Tamil, Teluga and Hindi support translations
Families and Babies (FAB):
(East Lancashire residents only) 01254 772929

Breastfeeding groups/support options

Visiting a breastfeeding group both in your pregnancy and after your baby is born can be a great way to share experiences and support with other breastfeeding families.

Click here to view Professor Amy Brown's videos for new parents.

For UNICEF leaflets and videos on Skin to Skin, Parent information, Infant Feeding and overcoming challenges, hand expressing your breast milk, breastfeeding in public please and much more, please follow this link.

Click the icon for more information.

Click the icon for more information.

Prepare for Breastfeeding (audio clip)

This FREE audio clip gives you some useful tips on infant feeding such as attaching your baby onto your breast, close loving relationships and skin to skin. This download will sit alongside all the conversations you will have during your pregnancy with your midwife. The download enables you to settle back, relax within the comfort of your own home and enjoy being with your baby, feeling your baby move, interacting with your baby. Relaxation helps release endorphins, these are our feel good hormones. Pregnancy is about building a relationship with your baby.
Download the clip here.
Breastfeeding

There are a range of useful documents below:

Breastfeeding while out and about

The Equality Act 2010 says that it is discrimination to treat a woman unfavourably because she is breastfeeding. It applies to anyone providing services, benefits, facilities and premises to the public, public bodies, further and higher education bodies and association. Service providers include most organisations that deal directly with the public. Service providers must not discriminate, harass or victimise a woman because she is breastfeeding.

Discrimination includes refusing to provide a service, providing a lower standard of service or providing a service on different terms. Therefore, a cafe owner cannot ask you to stop breastfeeding, ask you to move or cover up or refuse to serve you.

You can find out more about your rights, here.

Support for families expecting twins or more

See the links below for guidance:
bestbeginnings.org.uk/fbtb-twins-or-more twinstrust.org abm.me.uk/breastfeeding-information/breastfeeding-twins/ https://www.healthierlsc.co.uk/BetterBirths/Families/preparing-birth-and-parenthood
Parent-Infant Relationships

Antenatal

Your Health Visitor will contact you between 30-40 weeks and arrange a home visit. This is a great opportunity to explore your feelings around your pregnancy and caring for your baby when he or she is born.

Please see from page 37 in this document for information about formula preparation machines.

Hot weather, infant feeding and water

Fully breastfed babies do not need water until they are on solid foods. Your baby will need to breastfeed more than usual as they need extra drinks and breastfeeding parents should keep hydrated for their own wellbeing.

Click here for a poster.

Click here for guidance and recommendations on giving water to your baby.

Click here for FAQs on the recommendations for giving water during infancy.

Moving onto solid foods

Parents need evidence-based, independent information on complementary feeding.

"Eating well: the first year. A guide to introducing solids and eating well up to baby's first birthday" which can be downloaded and printed for free is also a fantastic resource for parents.

Weaning | Start 4 Life (www.nhs.uk)

New campaign promotes advice to introduce babies to solid food - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

https://www.firststepsnutrition.org/

Resources in other languages

The UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative has published Breastfeeding and Bottle feeding written resources in Arabic, Bengali, Hindi, Lithuanian, Mandarin, Polish, Romanian, Slovak, Turkish, Urdu and Ukranian. To access these, click here.

Social Media

Blackburn with Darwen's infant feeding support 'Breast Intentions' on Facebook.

Families and Babies (FaB) Facebook page for breastfeeding support, information and groups across Lancashire.
Breastfeeding Friends Barnoldswick East Lancashire NCT
Useful documents
Expressing and storing breast milk

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These pages give you all the information you need about feeding your baby and infant.

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What is Massage+ 30, 10, 5, and how does it help baby?

What is Massage+ 30, 10, 5?

Massage+ 30, 10, 5 is a simple, quick, and powerful intervention using massage to help improve the health and development of premature and full-term infants. This is a massage of baby's head, arms, legs, belly, and back, and also incorporates communication and movement.

Massage+ 30, 10, 5, also referred to as ATVV (for Audio, Tactile, Visual, Vestibular), was developed by Rosemary White-Traut, PhD, RN, FAAN. This medical expert-backed method showed proven benefits for premature and full-term infants.

What does Massage+ 30, 10, 5 help with?

There are many benefits to this baby massage intervention. Some of the benefits include improvements in:

What ages is Massage+ 30, 10, 5 for?

This intervention was originally developed for premature infants but after 40 years of research was found to have great benefits for full-term newborns and infants. Massage+ 30, 10, 5 is recommended for use on babies, from birth to up to 1 year old.

Want to learn more about this baby massage?

Take our on-demand course, made for parents, to learn more about how to do the massage, cues you're getting from baby, and more.
Pathways' information fills in the gaps in education for my NICU graduates as they transition home. I can't possibly provide them with the detailed education offered on your site and I love that we have such a great resources to provide for our families.
-Danika, Pediatric Physical Therapist
Why is it called Massage+ 30, 10, 5, and how is it different?

Why is it called Massage+ 30, 10, 5?

The numbers 30, 10, 5 refer to the length of time involved in the massage. They stand for:

Talk to baby for 30 seconds

Massage baby's head, arms, legs, belly, and back for 10 minutes

Rock baby for 5 minutes

How is Massage+ 30, 10, 5 different from other baby massages?
Massage+ 30, 10, 5 is:

A simple 15-minute intervention

Originally designed to help premature babies, but proven to have benefits for all babies - from newborns (including preemies) to 12 months

Based on more than 40 years of research funded by the National Institutes of Health

Research conducted by Rosemary White-Traut, PhD, RN, FAAN, a member of the Pathways.org Medical Roundtable

Also known by medical professionals as ATVV (Audio, Tactile, Visual, Vestibular)

Helpful at home and in the NICU

By doing Massage+ 30, 10, 5, you are getting to know your baby better.

Watch the full intervention here.

How does Massage+ 30, 10, 5 help premature infants?

Massage+ 30, 10, 5 was originally designed to help premature babies, but has now been proven to have benefits for all babies. Here are some of the benefits specifically for babies born prematurely.

Is there research behind Massage+ 30, 10, 5?

Yes! This intervention was developed after 40+ years of research by Rosemary White-Traut, PhD, RN, FAAN and is also known by healthcare professionals as Audio, Tactile, Visual, Vestibular (ATVV) intervention. Places like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have granted millions of dollars in research funding over the years. ​

How do you do Massage+ 30, 10, 5?

How to Apply Massage+ 30, 10, 5

Follow these steps to apply Massage+ 30, 10, 5 to your baby. The same steps apply for premature and full- term infants.

Some best practices to remember:

Allow enough time so you are not rushed

Best to do in a dimly lit, quiet room

Do the massage at the same time each day

Give baby 100% of your attention

Step 1: Talking
This step should last 30 seconds. However, even when you move on to the other steps, continue to talk and look at baby during all parts of Massage+ 30, 10, 5.
Steps 2-6: Massage
These steps should last 10 minutes. Repeat the steps baby liked until you complete a full 10 minutes.
Please note: If baby shows signs of disengagement during the massage, return to massaging areas baby prefers
Step 7: Rocking
This step should last 5 minutes.

If baby shows signs of disengagement during the massage, return to massaging areas baby prefers.

What are disengagement cues?

If baby shows signs of disengagement during the massage, return to massaging areas baby prefers.

Some possible disengagement cues include:

Crying

Whining

Fussing

Spitting up

Hiccups

Placing hand out to stop

Frowning

Refusing eye contact

Struggling movements

Sticking out tongue

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Infant Massage | Baby Massage From Pathways.org

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Massage+ 30, 10, 5 is a infant massage based on 40+ years of research. Try this massage at home or in the NICU.

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OneDrive photos, enjoy, share & organize your photos

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Six Steps to Safer Sleep - Pakistani Punjabi