# data[].attributes.body
Information about Nell and the Neonatal Unit - Sibling Resource

# data[].attributes.headline
Video: Helpful Information about expressing milk

# data[].attributes.subject
Video: Helpful Information about expressing milk

# data[].attributes.body
Helpful information about expressing milk

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Helpful information about expressing milk

# data[].attributes.body
Fitting and using the pump - Medela

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.headline
Video: Putting your Medela pump together 

# data[].attributes.subject
Video: Putting your Medela pump together 

# data[].attributes.body
Pump parts and putting the pump together -Medela

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pump parts and putting the pump together -Medela

# data[].attributes.body
GenOMICC

# data[].attributes.body
FIT-PIV

# data[].attributes.headline
Measuring standards and improving neonatal care

# data[].attributes.subject
Measuring standards and improving neonatal care

# data[].attributes.body
Measuring standards and improving neonatal care

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child HealthFollow this publisher

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Your baby's care: Measuring standards and improving neonatal care 2025

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A guide to the National Neonatal Audit Programme summary report on 2024 data See more at https://www.rcpch.ac.uk/resources/your-babys-care

# data[].attributes.body
Universal Credit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

Universal Credit is a payment to help with your living costs. It's paid monthly - or twice a month for some people in Scotland.

You may be able to get it if you're on a low income, out of work or you cannot work.

If you live in Northern Ireland, go to Universal Credit in Northern Ireland.

Sign in

Sign in to your Universal Credit account if you already have one.

If you already get other benefits

Universal Credit is replacing the following benefits and tax credits:

Child Tax Credit

Housing Benefit

Income Support

income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)

income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

Working Tax Credit

If you're getting any of these benefits or tax credits, you do not need to do anything unless either:

your circumstances change

you get a letter called a 'Migration Notice' telling you that you must claim Universal Credit

You'll stop getting these benefits and tax credits when you or your partner claims Universal Credit. If you or your partner gets Pension Credit, this will also stop if one of you claims Universal Credit.

This will not affect any other benefits you're getting, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Carer's Allowance.

You can read more about how tax credits and Universal Credit affect each other.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Universal Credit is replacing 6 other benefits with a single monthly payment if you're out of work or on a low income - eligibility, how to prepare.

# data[].attributes.body
Child Benefit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

You get Child Benefit if you're responsible for bringing up a child who is:

Only one person can get Child Benefit for a child.

There's no limit to how many children you can claim for.

By claiming Child Benefit, you can get:

an allowance paid to you for each child - you'll usually get it every 4 weeks

National Insurance credits which count towards your State Pension

a National Insurance number for your child without them having to apply for one - they'll usually get the number shortly before they turn 16 years old

If you choose not to get Child Benefit payments, you should still make a claim to get the other advantages.

If your circumstances change

You must report any change of circumstances to the Child Benefit Office.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Child Benefit - child benefit rates, eligibility, how to claim, child benefit claim form CH2.

# data[].attributes.body
What is Healthy Start?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is Healthy Start?

If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.

If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. We'll add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks.

You can use your card to buy:

plain liquid cow's milk

fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables

fresh, dried, and tinned pulses

infant formula milk based on cow's milk

You can also use your card to collect:

Healthy Start vitamins - these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding

vitamin drops for babies and young children - these are suitable from birth to 4 years old

If you live in Scotland

You can get help from Best Start Foods (opens in a new tab) instead.

Advice on healthy eating

For more advice on healthy eating, visit:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops.

# data[].attributes.body
Sure Start Maternity Grant

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Sure Start Maternity Grant is a £500 payment to help with the costs of a new baby: what you’ll get, eligibility and how to apply (claim form SF100).

# data[].attributes.body
Postnatal Ward Round times

# data[].attributes.headline
What does 24 hours on a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit look like?

# data[].attributes.subject
What does 24 hours on a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit look like?

# data[].attributes.body
A parent resource for expectant and new parents about what to expect if their baby is admitted to a Neonatal Unit.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.body
The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 – a new leave and pay entitlement for parents with a baby in neonatal care – comes into effect in England, Scotland and Wales on 6 April 2025.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Neonatal Care Leave and Pay: Guidance and FAQs | Bliss

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 – a new leave and pay entitlement for parents with a baby in neonatal care – comes into effect in England, Scotland and Wales on 6 April 2025.

# data[].attributes.body
For New and Expectant Dads

# data[].attributes.body
Dad matters information

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
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.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
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,

# data[].attributes.body
Blood sugar monitoring for your baby

# data[].attributes.body
Ready to Relate

# data[].attributes.headline
Canopie - 24/7 practical support for you.

# data[].attributes.subject
Canopie - 24/7 practical support for you.

# data[].attributes.body
Canopie - 24/7 practical support for you.

# data[].attributes.body
Transitional Care Unit Feedback

# data[].attributes.body
In our place - Parenting Course

# data[].attributes.headline
You and Your Baby: Supporting love and nurture on the neonatal unit

# data[].attributes.subject
You and Your Baby: Supporting love and nurture on the neonatal unit

# data[].attributes.body
Supporting love and nurture on the neonatal unit.

# data[].attributes.body
Foreign Language Resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Using straightforward language and simple illustrations to aid understanding, these infosheets on breastfeeding and bottle feeding are available in multiple languages and can be used to support parents with the basics of feeding and responding to their baby.

The infosheets are free to download and print, and are currently available in:
Please note: Following feedback, these translations were updated in 2019 to ensure the language used was as straightforward as possible.
The English versions of these resources are available below for reference:

Breastfeeding guidance: English (for reference)

Bottle feeding guidance: English (for reference)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Foreign language resources - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These infosheets are available in multiple languages and can be used to support parents with feeding and responding to their baby.

# data[].attributes.body
The Black Maternal Experience

# data[].attributes.body
Roshni Ghar - a mental health and well being charity

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Supporting South Asian &nbspCommunities&nbsp Roshni Ghar is a mental health and wellbeing charity that provides culturally appropriate and responsive services, aimed predominantly at South Asian community. Professional Referral Self-Referral Culturally Sensitive Counselling We provide one-to-one counselling support and group therapy for men and women. more information Mental Health and Wellbeing support Giving you the best [...]

# data[].attributes.body
Watching and understanding your premature baby.

# data[].attributes.body
Being involved in your baby's procedures helps to sooth your baby.

# data[].attributes.body
This information is about introducing your premature baby to more solid foods, and the steps you can follow as your baby moves from milk to eventually only eating solids. This is called weaning.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This information is about introducing your premature baby to more solid foods, and the steps you can follow as your baby moves from milk to eventually only eating solids. This is called weaning.

# data[].attributes.body
Find out more about what reflux us, the signs to look out for in your baby, and the treatment available.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is reflux?

Reflux happens when some of the partly digested milk or food in the stomach comes back up the tube from the mouth to the stomach (oesophagus). It can sometimes reach the baby's throat and mouth.

The stomach contains acid that helps to digest food. The acidity of the food coming back up to the throat can cause some discomfort and burning sensations. This can be painful for babies and they may become irritable during and after feeding.

Why does reflux happen?

Reflux happens when the band of muscle between the food pipe and the stomach opening is weak and cannot close properly. This band usually opens when food is about to enter the stomach and closes so that food stays in the stomach.

Babies born premature or sick are more likely to experience reflux, but it is very common and affects nearly half of all babies in some way.

What are the signs of reflux in babies?

Signs of reflux in babies can include the following:

Bringing milk back up during or after feeds.

Vomiting that often shows no clear pattern in terms of timing or amount.

Persistent hiccups and coughing.

Fussiness, crying and restlessness.

Refusing feeds or only taking small amounts of food.

Choking or gagging.

If untreated, more severe complications of reflux can include the following:

Frequent chest infections.

Poor weight gain.

Difficulties with feeding, including a reluctance to feed.

If your baby is showing signs of reflux, talk to a medical professional such as your GP or health visitor.

What treatment is available for reflux?

Mild reflux usually improves on its own and gets better when your baby begins to wean onto solids. Treatment depends on the severity of the reflux. But there are ways you can help too. Here are some ways you can help your baby:

Give your baby skin-to-skin after a feed, to allow the food to settle.

For some babies it is helpful for them to be fed in different positions. You could try to feed your baby in a more upright position. Speak to staff on the neonatal unit if you have questions or need support with positioning your baby for feeding.

Keep your baby's head gently raised during the day, especially after a feed. Reflux is worse when a baby is lying flat on their back. Do not put anything directly under your baby's head, and never use a pillow with a baby under 12 months old.

Change your baby's nappy before feeding.

Feed your baby with smaller amounts of milk more often.

Wind your baby more frequently. To wind, rub rather than tap your baby.

Your GP may also give you some medications to help. These may include feed thickeners, which are added to your baby's milk to help reduce the effect of reflux. Thickeners work by making the food more solid once it is in the stomach and this makes it harder to bring back up. Other medications may help to stop your baby's stomach producing too much acid and speed up food passing through the stomach. Feed thickeners should only be used if they have been prescribed by a medical professional such as a GP.

Reflux usually gets better on its own, as babies' muscles develop. If treatments and medications do not help, then your baby may need to be referred to a specialist. They will be able to tell you if your baby needs any further tests.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out more about what reflux us, the signs to look out for in your baby, and the treatment available.

# data[].attributes.body
Reflux is when a baby brings up milk, or is sick, during or shortly after feeding. It's very common and usually gets better on its own.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
has vomit that's green or yellow, or has blood in it

is projectile vomiting (being sick with more force than usual)

has blood in their poo

has a swollen or tender tummy

has a very high temperature or they feel hot or shivery

keeps being sick and cannot keep fluid down

has diarrhoea that lasts for over a week or has signs of dehydration

will not stop crying and is very distressed

is refusing to feed

Also call your GP or 111 if you have any other concerns about your baby.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out about reflux, where a baby brings up milk during or soon after a feed.

# data[].attributes.body
Colic is when a baby cries a lot but there's no obvious cause. It's a common problem that should get better by around 3 or 4 months of age.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out about colic, including what the symptoms are, what you can do to help soothe your baby, and when to get medical help.

# data[].attributes.body
CLICK HERE https://www.bradfordhospitals.nhs.uk/interpretingservice/

# data[].attributes.body
Supporting you and your family throughout your baby’s neonatal journey.

# data[].attributes.body
To be discharged from the hospital, the doctors and nurses will need to make sure your baby is :

steadily gaining weight

taking feeds sufficiently

maintaining their body temperature in an open cot

You are confident in looking after your baby.

You can also refer to the Neonatal Milestone Chart in your baby’s notes for an estimated date of discharge or speak to one of our staff.

# data[].attributes.body
The Wheat International Trial

# data[].attributes.body
NEO GASTRIC study for babies born more than 6 weeks early and needing a feeding tube

# data[].attributes.body
Please give us your feedback!

# data[].attributes.body
We are introducing a way to join the ward round virtually - please ask to speak to the discharge coordinator or the nurse looking after your baby if you are interested.

# data[].attributes.body
Welcome to Bradford Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

# data[].attributes.body
Matrons Clinic

# data[].attributes.body
A tour of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Bradford Royal Infirmary

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust - a tour of our neonatal unit

# data[].attributes.body
Photos of the Allied Health Professionals

# data[].attributes.body
Photos of the Neonatal Consultants

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
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

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
DadPad | The Essential Guide for New Dads | Support Guide for New Dads

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
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.

# data[].attributes.headline
Yorkshire & Humber Parent and Family Engagement

# data[].attributes.subject
Yorkshire & Humber Parent and Family Engagement

# data[].attributes.body
Yorkshire & Humber Parent and Family Engagement

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

# data[].attributes.headline
What is the Yorkshire and Humber Neonatal Network

# data[].attributes.subject
What is the Yorkshire and Humber Neonatal Network

# data[].attributes.body
What is the Yorkshire and Humber Neonatal Network?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What is the Yorkshire and Humber Neonatal Network?

# data[].attributes.headline
Transferring between neonatal units in Yorkshire and Humber

# data[].attributes.subject
Transferring between neonatal units in Yorkshire and Humber

# data[].attributes.body
Transferring between neonatal units in Yorkshire and Humber

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Transferring between neonatal units in Yorkshire and Humber

# data[].attributes.headline
Reasons why your baby might transfer between different Neonatal Units.

# data[].attributes.subject
Reasons why your baby might transfer between different Neonatal Units.

# data[].attributes.body
Reasons why your baby might transfer between different Neonatal Units.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Reasons why your baby might transfer between neonatal units

# data[].attributes.body
What happens during a transfer?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Y&H Neonatal Parent and Family Engagement 

# data[].attributes.body
What are the benefits of skin to skin?

# data[].attributes.body
Follow us on Instagram: bradfordneonatalunit

# data[].attributes.body
Step-by-step guide to preparing a formula feed

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Good hygiene is really important when preparing a bottle of formula for your baby (NHS Choices, 2016a, 2018). A baby's immune system isn't as well developed as an adult's. This makes them more vulnerable to illness and infection, particularly diarrhoea and vomiting.

Watch our simple step-by-step guide on how to make up a bottle of formula milk for your baby.

Follow our step-by-step guide to making up a bottle of formula.

Step 1: Fill up the kettle with fresh water

Use at least 1 litre of fresh tap water. Don't boil and use water that has already been boiled, or use artificially-softened water. Bottled water is also not recommended for making up a feed as it's not sterile and may contain too much salt (sodium) or sulphate (NICE, 2105; NHS Choices, 2015, 2016a, 2017, 2018).

Step 2: Boil the water

Then leave it to cool for up to 30 minutes, so that it has cooled but is still at least 70°C.

Step 3: Clean area and wash your hands

It's important to disinfect the surface you are going to use and wash your hands thoroughly.

Step 4: Rinse and shake excess water

If you're using a cold-water steriliser, shake off any excess solution from the bottle and the teat, or rinse them with cooled boiled water from the kettle (not tap water). Then put your sterilised baby bottle on the cleaned, disinfected surface.

Step 5: Pour the water in

Use the amount of water you need and double check the water level is correct. Always put water in the bottle first, while it's still hot, before adding any powdered formula.

Step 6: Loosely fill the scoop with formula powder

Do this according to the manufacturer's instructions. Level it off using either the flat edge of a clean, dry knife or the leveller provided. Different tins of formula come with different scoops. Make sure you only use the scoop that comes with the formula.

Step 7: Put the teat back on the bottle

Holding the edge of the teat, put it on the bottle. Then screw the retaining ring onto the bottle. Cover the teat with the cap and shake the bottle until all of the formula powder dissolves.

Step 8: Cool the bottle for your baby

It's important to cool the formula so it's not too hot to drink. You can do this by holding the bottle (with the lid on) under cold running water.

Step 9: Test the temperature

Always test the temperature of the formula on the inside of your wrist before feeding it to your baby. It should be body temperature, which means it feels warm or cool, but not hot.

(NHS Choices, 2016a)

Step 10: Throw away un-used feed

If there is any made-up formula left after your baby has finished feeding, always throw it away.

Tips for preparing formula feeds

Always follow manufacturers' instructions carefully as they vary on how much water and powder to use.

Never add extra formula powder because this can make your baby constipated or dehydrated. Too little powder may mean your baby doesn't get the nourishment they need.

You shouldn't add anything else to the bottle like sugar or cereals either.

Never warm up formula in a microwave, as it may heat the feed unevenly and scald your baby's mouth.

You should make up each feed as your baby needs it because bacteria multiply very quickly at room temperature. You might be surprised that even sealed formula packets can sometimes contain bacteria.

Very young babies and babies with poorer immune systems, like premature babies, are more vulnerable to bacteria. It's particularly important to follow these guidelines or consider using sterile ready-made liquid feeds if your baby was born prematurely (NHS Choices, 2015).

Further information

NCT supports all parents, however they feed their baby. If you have questions, concerns or need support, call our support line on 0300 330 0700, whether you are using formula milk, breastfeeding or mixed feeding. If you're concerned about your baby's health talk to your health visitor or GP.

NHS. (2015) Start4Life guide to bottle-feeding. Available from: https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2008/02/start4life_guide_to_bottle_-feeding.pdf [Accessed 21st November 2017]

NHS Choices (2016a) How to make up baby formula. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/making-up-infant-formula.aspx [Accessed 21 November 2017]

NHS Choices (2016b) Sterilising baby bottles. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/sterilising-bottles.aspx [Accessed 21st November 2017]

NHS Choices (2016c) Types of formula milk. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/types-of-infant-formula.aspx [Accessed 21st November 2017]

NHS Choices (2017) Formula milk: common questions. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/infant-formula-questions.aspx [Accessed 21st November 2017]

NHS Choices (2018) Bottle-feeding advice. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/bottle-feeding-advice/ [Accessed 21st November 2017]

NICE (2015) Clinical Guidance CG37. Postnatal care up to 8 weeks after birth. Available from: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg37/chapter/1-Recommendations [Accessed 21st November 2017]

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Step-by-step guide to preparing a formula feed | Baby & toddler, Feeding articles & support | NCT

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Good hygiene is really important when preparing a bottle of formula for your baby (NHS Choices, 2016a, 2018). A baby's immune system isn't as well developed as an adult's. This makes them more vulnerable to illness and infection, particularly diarrhoea and vomiting. Follow our step-by-step guide to making up a bottle of formula.

# data[].attributes.body
Healthier Together is a website that gives consistent, accurate and trustworthy healthcare advice to parents, carers and young people. The information on this site has been reviewed by local paediatricians, GPs and clinicians across the region to ensure it aligns with current practices and procedures. Use the quick links, search bar, or menus to find clear advice with easy to use traffic light guide, red, amber, green found in the parents and carers section. This will help to identify when, where, and how you should seek help for your poorly baby or child. Look through the site for practical guidance such as ‘should my child go to school’.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home :: West Yorkshire Healthier Together

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Healthier Together - a West Yorkshire Partnership. The website provides advice for parents, young people and pregnant women, and clinical resources to support healthcare professionals

# data[].attributes.headline
Breastfeeding advice for newborn babies 

# data[].attributes.subject
Breastfeeding advice for newborn babies 

# data[].attributes.body
Tips and practical advice for babies who are learning to breast feed in the early days of life.

If you have a baby that is transitioning from tube feeds to breastfeeds you may find some of the other tabs more helpful.

# data[].attributes.headline
Supporting close and loving relationships on the neonatal unit 

# data[].attributes.subject
Supporting close and loving relationships on the neonatal unit 

# data[].attributes.body
Building a close and loving relationship with your baby is so important for your baby's long term health and development.

# data[].attributes.body
Back to sleep advice for the prevention of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
One gift, twice the impact

From now until midday on Tuesday 5th December, donations to The Lullaby Trust made via the Big Give will be DOUBLED at no extra cost to you. Please donate today if you can. One gift will make twice the difference to babies living in crisis situations.

We use cookies to give you the best possible online experience. If you continue, we will assume you are happy for your web browser to receive all cookies from our website. Accept

How to reduce the risk of SIDS

Our safer sleep advice gives simple steps for how you can sleep your baby to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) which is commonly known as cot death. It can give you the peace of mind to enjoy this special time.

Our advice is based on strong scientific evidence and should be followed for all sleep periods, not just at night.

If you have any questions about SIDS or safer sleep, please call our information line on 0808 802 6869 (lines open Monday-Friday 10am-2pm).

Watch our free presentations on how to sleep your baby safely and reduce the risk of SIDS

Things you can do

Always place your baby on their back to sleep

Keep your baby smoke free during pregnancy and after birth

Place your baby to sleep in a separate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for the first 6 months

Breastfeed your baby

Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition

Things to avoid

Never sleep on a sofa or in an armchair with your baby

Don't sleep in the same bed as your baby if you smoke, drink or take drugs or are extremely tired, if your baby was born prematurely or was of low birth-weight

Avoid letting your baby get too hot

Don't cover your baby's face or head while sleeping or use loose bedding

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) for your baby by following our safer sleep advice. The advice is based on strong scientific evidence.

# data[].attributes.body
You will need to a bring a car seat to the unit on day of discharge. Car seats are a legal requirement when travelling in a car.

# data[].attributes.body
Remember babies and children should never be left unsupervised in the bath. For more information and practical tips click the link above.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You don't need to bathe your baby every day. You may prefer to wash their face, neck, hands and bottom instead. This is often called "topping and tailing".
Choose a time when your baby is awake and content. Make sure the room is warm. Get everything ready beforehand. You'll need a bowl of warm water, a towel, cotton wool, a fresh nappy and, if necessary, clean clothes.

Topping and tailing tips

Hold your baby on your knee or lay them on a changing mat. Take off all their clothes, apart from their vest and nappy, and wrap them in a towel.

Dip the cotton wool in the water (make sure it doesn't get too wet) and wipe gently around your baby's eyes from the nose outward, using a fresh piece of cotton wool for each eye. This is so that you don't transfer any stickiness or infection from one eye to another.

Use a fresh piece of cotton wool to clean around your baby's ears, but not inside them. Never use cotton buds to clean inside your baby's ears. Wash the rest of your baby's face, neck and hands in the same way and dry them gently with the towel.

Take off the nappy and wash your baby's bottom and genital area with fresh cotton wool and warm water. Dry very carefully, including between the skin folds, and put on a clean nappy.

It will help your baby to relax if you keep talking while you wash them. The more they hear your voice, the more they'll get used to listening to you and start to understand what you're saying.

Bathing your baby safely

Never leave your baby alone in the bath, even for a second.

Do not allow older children to look after your baby in the bath. Babies of any age should always be supervised by adults while in the bath.

You don't need to bathe your baby every day, but if they really enjoy it, there's no reason why you shouldn't.

It's best not to bathe your baby straight after a feed or when they're hungry or tired. Make sure the room you're bathing them in is warm.

Have everything you need at hand: a baby bath or clean washing-up bowl filled with warm water, 2 towels, a clean nappy, clean clothes and cotton wool.

The water should be warm, not hot. Check it with your wrist or elbow and mix it well so there are no hot patches.

Don't add any liquid cleansers to the bath water. Plain water is best for your baby's skin in the first month.

Hold your baby on your knee and clean their face.

Next, wash their hair with plain water, supporting them over the bowl.

Once you've dried their hair gently, you can take off their nappy, wiping away any mess.

Lower your baby gently into the bowl or bath using one hand to hold their upper arm and support their head and shoulders. Then use the other hand to gently swish the water over your baby without splashing.

Keep your baby's head clear of the water.

Lift your baby out and pat them dry, paying special attention to the creases in their skin.

This is a good time to massage your baby. Massage can help them relax and sleep. Avoid using any oils or lotions until your baby is at least a month old.

If your baby seems frightened of bathing and cries, try bathing together. Make sure the water isn't too hot. It's easier if someone else holds your baby while you get in and out of the bath.

Baby bath seats

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) recommends that baby bath seats are not used.

Babies of any age can drown very quickly in just a few centimetres of water, with no noise or struggle.

It's not safe to leave them unsupervised in a baby bath seat, even for a few seconds.

If you choose to use a bath seat:

always keep your child within arm's reach

never leave your child, even for a second

make sure your bath seat is stuck firmly to the bottom of the bath

do not let bath seats give you a false sense of security (they're not safety devices)

The Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) has more information and advice about baby bath seats

Video: how do I bath my baby?

In this video, a midwife shows you how to bath your baby properly.

Cutting your baby's nails

Some babies are born with long nails and it's important to cut them in case they scratch themselves. You can buy special baby nail clippers or small, round-ended safety scissors. Or you could try filing them down with a fine emery board instead

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Read a step-by-step guide to washing and bathing your new baby, including how often to do it and how to top and tail.

# data[].attributes.body
Support for families affected by HIE

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Peeps HIE Charity | HIE Awareness & Support

Welcome to Peeps HIE

We provide support to parents, families & friends of those affected by HIE (Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy), raising awareness of HIE.

Some of the things we do include:

Provide information about HIE

Buddy/peer support

Counselling and therapy

Funding for equipment

Find out more about what we do...

Our Family stories

We pride ourselves on the support we can give to families experiencing the challenges of day-to-day life with children affected by HIE.

Read our Family Stories

Peeps on Twitter

Our information leaflets are written by families, with families, for families.
They can be downloaded from our website, or printed copies sent out - please get in touch if we can help support.

https://www.peeps-hie.org/resources-downloads/

#HeardOfHIE

2

If you'd like to find out more about our new book club, starting in 2024, and register an interest, please check out our website:

It will be online, peer-led, from the comfort of your own home, and just for H.I.E. parents/grandparents/carers.
Suggestions...

We recognise that each H.I.E. journey can be unique; we aim to provide support and guidance tailored to the diverse needs of our community.

Inclusion matters and is an agenda item on every meeting we have with Trustees and employees.

From informational resources to emotional...

Twitter icon
View more

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Peeps HIE Charity | HIE Awareness & Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Peeps is a UK charity, dedicated to supporting those affected by HIE (hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy). We provide emotional, practical and financial support.

# data[].attributes.body
Contact numbers for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
24011027-Contact Information Neonatal Intensive Care Unit d1

# data[].attributes.body
Colostrum has amazing benefits for your baby. Small in volume but mighty; hand expressing is the best way to collect these precious droplets of liquid gold!

# data[].attributes.body
The lady kindly demonstrating the hand expressing technique in this video has been expressing for some time please do not feel disheartened by the volume you see. We expect little droplets at this stage.

# data[].attributes.body
Your baby might have been born early or might be unwell

to feed at the breast properly. Expressing your breast milk

means that your baby still gets the benefits of your

breast milk while he / she is getting stronger.

Breast milk is especially important for premature and poorly babies, because of the protection it offers. Try to think of it as a medicine that only you can provide.

In the early days you may feel so overwhelmed with emotion and exhaustion that it’s difficult to take new information in, let alone think about expressing breast milk, but starting to express early and frequently can really make a difference. Evidence shows that starting to express early has a positive impact on protecting a long term supply of milk for when your baby is ready to feed.

We know its a hard skill to learn and have a dedicated infant feeding team that work alongside the nursing team to support you with expressing milk for your baby and your longer term feeding goals.

# data[].attributes.body
Find age-adjusted recommendations for helping your baby's development.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Your Baby is Growing So Fast!

Babies form 1 million new neural connections per second. Their development shouldn't be a guessing game.

Our goal: Track milestones and identify warning signs early

Intervene as soon as possible to take advantage of baby's growing brain.
Early intervention = better outcomes.
Learn More About Early Intervention & Early Detection

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pathways.org | Tools to maximize child development

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Free online resources to make sure your child's development is on track. View our informational videos and brochures or visit our baby games calendar.

# data[].attributes.body
The EiSMART website has lots of free resources for families to help optimise their baby's early development. It is specifically focussed on baby's that have needed care on the NICU.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
EiSMART is an evidence based framework to give high risk babies the best start in life. We span all aspects of a child's development: Sensory, Motor, Attention and Regulation, and Relationships. Professionals and parents work Together to support premature and sick infants from birth ( Early I ntervention).

parents

We are here to help. You are the expert on your baby; let us work with you and provide the resources, tools and education that can help fulfil your baby's potential.
DISCOVER MORE

free resources

Our developmental play leaflets suggest activities to support all aspects of a child's development. You can get free access to these resources, plus webinars, posters and more.
DISCOVER MORE

professionals

We are committed to supporting your development. We are working to advance knowledge, skills and practice in early intervention.
DISCOVER MORE

Latest News

Training Courses

Published October 20, 2023

Study Days and Ei SMART Implementation Workshops

The Ei SMART Framework - Foundation Training. This study day provides an in-depth introduction to the Ei SMART framework and is our Foundation level training before progressing to our advanced half days.

Dates for 2024 will be announced soon. Watch this space or subscribe to our newsletter for more information.

Download

Giving Every High Risk Infant The Best Start In Life

EiSMART is a framework for improving developmental outcomes for high risk infants. It is an approach founded in research, which combines multiple disciplines, to address every aspect of development in premature and sick babies. EiSMART is a uniquely collaborative approach, where professionals and parents work T ogether to provide early and more effective interventions for infants and young children with developmental challenges. Click on the balls to learn more.

How We Help

We provide resources to support child development, and deliver training courses to support professional development. We collaborate on research to advance practice in early intervention, and we influence policy on the care of high risk infants.

DISCOVER MORE MEET OUR TEAM

Invaluable For Us & Our Baby

"In the beginning of my NICU journey I cried every day. There is no other outlet for the hurt, the sadness, the fear - especially the fear - of giving birth so early. In NICU, everything about those first weeks is different to how it should be. You emerge from that darkness into an intense, overwhelming, medical world where you feel utterly helpless to do the most natural thing: care for your baby. Stumbling upon EiSMART was like finding fresh air, after a long, dark time under water. It helped me recover purpose; recover focus; recover the ability to care for my baby."
- Parent of baby born at 24 weeks' gestation
DISCOVER MORE OUR APPROACH

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Building A Brighter Future For High Risk Infants: EiSMART is a transdisciplinary approach to early intervention for infants at risk of developmental delays.

# data[].attributes.body
To support babies and families at home we run a seven-day outreach service. The nurses in the outreach team will liaise with families and the neonatal unit, and play an important role in helping babies following their discharge from the neonatal unit.

They will check on your baby’s progress at home, support feeding, check weight and carry out blood tests etc.

More babies are now being discharged with tube feeding at home. This can help babies to be discharged home successfully and help mothers successfully breastfeed. This may not be suitable for every baby and will be offered to families on a case-by-case basis.

If your baby gets transferred to another hospital the Outreach team will liaise with that baby unit and their outreach team there.

# data[].attributes.body
Why is my baby being transferred

# data[].attributes.body
When your baby is close to being ready for discharge home, we may offer you and your baby a bed in our transitional care unit (TCU).

Transitional care means that mum and baby can stay in hospital together. Here, you will be supported by experienced neonatal nurses and midwives to prepare you for going home.

Spending time on TCU can be particularly helpful for establishing a good pattern of feeding and weight gain and building parents' confidence caring for their baby before taking them home.

# data[].attributes.body
Once your baby grows to be a child, we know exercise is important to keep them heathy and happy. Here are some resources for the whole family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Exercise is important for children to keep them happy and healthy. There are plenty of fun ways to keep the whole family active.

Pre-schoolers need at least 3 hours of physical activity spread throughout the day, including active indoor and outdoor play. The more the better!

Aim for a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity a day for school age children. Below are some of the ways in which you can encourage this within your family.

Encouragement and motivation

Exercise doesn't just have to be about getting your child to go swimming or running. Think about which activities your child enjoys more. Are there any day to day activities that you could turn into a fun form of exercise (that gets your heart rate up for 10 minutes or more at a time) for everyone to enjoy together?

It's important to let children try different things so they can find something they like. Try and understand which forms of exercise they enjoy. Encourage them to continue with these and look for further opportunities to develop their interest like joining a local team or an after school club. All forms of exercise and sport are great for a child. You should celebrate any progress or developments they make.

Need some ideas about which sports your child might like? The NHS Healthier Families website has more ideas and information about ways to try new sports or activities.

To find out what is available locally use the Yorkshire Activity Finder.

Promoting confidence

Doing sport is not only healthy for the body, it can have a great impact on confidence and well being. Above all it can be a lot of fun! It is important to support your child in trying out different sports and be encouraging whenever they start playing. Try and promote the feel good factor as much as possible.

Ideas for keeping active

10 Minute Shake Up Games: Change4Life and Disney have teamed up to bring you play along games inspired by your favourite Disney and Pixar characters. These 10 minute bursts of fun will really get your kids moving and count towards the 60 active minutes they need every day.

The workout badges with Hey Duggee & Joe Wicks: The Workout Badges bring together the fun of Hey Duggee with the positive energy of Joe Wicks to help pre-schoolers learn how to stay fit and healthy all presented within an exciting world of live action and animation.

Cosmic Yoga: Uses stories, role play and a good portion of silliness to make yoga and mindfulness fun for kids.

Jump at home: Play with these fun, simple indoor activities to keep your children entertained.

Andy's Wild Workouts: Your child can adventure with Andy and learn some animal moves of their own.

50 Things to do Before You're 5: Provides inspiration for parents and carers to connect with children through a range of activities, all designed to have a positive impact on learning and health.

Fun activities for indoors or outdoors

Play 'keep it up' with a balloon

Have a dance

Play catch with a bean bag

Plan an indoor or outdoor treasure hunt

Play musical statues

Play hide and seek

Read stories and sing songs that require actions in time with the words

Dance or jump to music

Make a den

Rough and tumble play is also fun, so only stop it if it seems unsafe. Physically active toddlers should be in a safe environment and supervised at all times.

PE

PE sessions will offer different sport types so listen to what your child has done each session and what they have particularly enjoyed. You can see if they would like to continue some of their favourite sports outside of school or you can find out if your school offers after school activities.

Walking

Are you focused on getting your child to school as quickly as possible, for example by car? The walk to and from school is a simple form of exercise which can help your child (and you!) reach your 60 minutes of activity a day. Walking is a great form of exercise.

Try one of these family friendly walks in West Yorkshire.

Using the community (Parks and green spaces)

Try and engage with other families in your neighbourhood and find out what activities they do. This could be a useful way to gain ideas whilst giving your children opportunities to make friends and partake in shared activities. Local authority websites have parks and free activities that are available. Through these links you can find parks and green spaces in your area:
Calderdale
Park Run

Why not try Junior Park run? It is a free activity that runs every Sunday morning at 9am in parks across West Yorkshire. Junior park run is 2km in length and suitable for children aged 4 to 14 years old. It is a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience. There is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along, whether you walk, jog or run.

Find your nearest junior park run.

Using the community (Sports and facilities)

Within your community there are organisations which offer a wide range of sports bundled into one package. There are different levels to these memberships and they strive to be inclusive by having reductions for certain groups. Here are some examples in each region:
Calderdale
Other Resources
Healthy Holidays Calderdale 50 Things To Do Before You're 11 3/4 Yorkshire Park Play

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Being Active :: West Yorkshire Healthier Together

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
WY, West Yorkshire Healthier Together, WY Healthier Together, child activity, park run, family walk

# data[].attributes.body
Some babies on our unit require a lumbar puncture. This is a parent information leaflet, please ask the medical team if you have any queries.

# data[].attributes.body
Little Minds Matter - support for new parents

# data[].attributes.headline
Neonatal Parents and Families in Yorkshire and Humber

# data[].attributes.subject
Neonatal Parents and Families in Yorkshire and Humber

# data[].attributes.body
A Facebook group to support parents and families from Yorkshire and Humber.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

# data[].attributes.headline
Unexpected Beginnings: The Neonatal Unit

# data[].attributes.subject
Unexpected Beginnings: The Neonatal Unit

# data[].attributes.body
A podcast produced by parents with experience of the neonatal unit. The hope is that by sharing their stories and those of other parents, this podcast will be able to help you at whatever point you are in the journey.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Unexpected Beginnings: The Neonatal Unit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Unexpected Beginnings: The Neonatal Unit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This podcast looks at the highs and the lows of life on the neonatal unit. Recorded with Leeds Children’s Hospital and funded by Leeds Hospitals Charity, this podcast is hosted by Caroline Verdon and Kerry Bickerdike .They have both had babies on the neonatal unit and know first hand how hard it can…

# data[].attributes.body
Some babies are eligible for specialist eye screening - we call this 'ROP'. This leaflet provides more information about this, but if you have any questions please ask the nurses and doctors looking after your baby

# data[].attributes.body
Parent information

# data[].attributes.headline
پیدائش سے پہلے اور بعد کی نگہداشت کے دوران ترجمان کے ذریعے کی گئی گفت و شنید - ایک تحقیقی مطالعہ

# data[].attributes.subject
پیدائش سے پہلے اور بعد کی نگہداشت کے دوران ترجمان کے ذریعے کی گئی گفت و شنید - ایک تحقیقی مطالعہ

# data[].attributes.body
پیدائش سے پہلے اور بعد کی نگہداشت کے دوران ترجمان کے ذریعے کی گئی گفت و شنید - ایک تحقیقی مطالعہ

# data[].attributes.headline
Interpreted conversations in perinatal care

# data[].attributes.subject
Interpreted conversations in perinatal care

# data[].attributes.body
Interpreted conversations in perinatal care

# data[].attributes.body
Starting primary school is a big step for all young children and their parents, and there can be some more things to think about for children who were born premature.

This page offers some information about how premature birth can affect children when they start primary school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Starting primary school is a big step for all young children and their parents, and there can be some more things to think about for children who were born premature. This page offers some information about how premature birth can affect children when they start primary school.

# data[].attributes.body
A timeline with information about child development and how we can support them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Life Skills

For children and young people Life Skills means being able to take part in Self Care, Play and Education. You can find general hints and tips to teach children and young people new life skills. There are also sections on Sleep and Listening, Understanding, Talking and Interacting.

# data[].attributes.body
Important times of the day you can be involved in.

# data[].attributes.body
Bradford Children’s Research gives babies, children, young people and their families the opportunity to be involved in research that will improve their treatments and care for future generations. Together we can hope to make researching the effectiveness of new and existing treatments part of routine care.

We are currently involved in the following studies:

- NEOGASTRIC

-WHEAT
- INTERPRETED CONVERSATIONS IN PERINATAL CARE

# data[].attributes.body
You can follow us on X: @NeonatalBTHFT

# data[].attributes.body
SPaRC – Spiritual, Pastoral and Religious Care

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SPaRC – Spiritual, Pastoral and Religious Care

# data[].attributes.body
How professionals can access training to support little minds and their families

# data[].attributes.body
Current guideline to safely prepare formula milk for your baby.

# data[].attributes.body
Safe Sleeping

# data[].attributes.body
Some families will be offered basic life support training by the neonatal outreach nurses before discharge. This particularly applies to babies needing extra care at home such as home oxygen or tube feeds.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Before you leave the neonatal unit, a trained doctor or nurse will show you how to resuscitate your baby if they stop breathing.

The thought of having to resuscitate your baby can be very scary, and is something that no parent or carer ever wants to have to do or think about. But the training is designed to help you be as prepared as possible.

Research suggests that learning how to resuscitate your baby could help increase your confidence and reduce any anxiety you may have.

If your baby stops breathing, it is important to stay calm and call 999; the emergency call handler will help. If you need to perform CPR on your baby, the call handler will talk you through the process until the ambulance arrives.

We have more information on what to do if you think your baby is becoming unwell.

We are currently reviewing our resuscitation video and will upload the new version later this year. Until then, our friends at the St John's Ambulance have an instructional video about what to do if your baby stops breathing.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Having resuscitation training can help you be more prepared to care for your premature or sick baby after leaving the neonatal unit.

# data[].attributes.body
If your baby is unwell when you go home | Bliss

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
After leaving the neonatal unit, you may be worried about your baby becoming unwell. This is something many parents experience, especially when they have become used to the support of the unit staff. Many parents worry that they won't be able to notice the signs that their baby is becoming unwell.

Babies who are born premature or sick may have weaker immune systems than babies born at full-term. It is important to be prepared if your baby is at high risk, particularly in the winter months. This is to reduce the risk of infection. We have more information about common infectious illnesses.

Some babies may be more snuffly when they come home from the unit, or you may hear a quiet sniffling sound. This may be because of the change in atmosphere and temperature, and more dust at home. The snuffling will settle down, but this may take a few weeks. If your baby seems well otherwise and is able to feed, try not to worry. If you hear a wheezing, whistling or grunting noise when your baby is breathing out, you should see your doctor immediately.

If you are concerned about any changes in your baby's behaviour, you should see your GP. You can also call 111 for medical help over the phone.

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

How to check your baby's temperature

Many parents worry about their baby being too hot or too cold. You can firstly check your baby's temperature by feeling the back of their neck or tummy. It is normal for a baby's hands to feel cooler than the rest of their body.

To check your baby's temperature, you can place a digital thermometer under their armpit. Your baby's temperature should normally be between 36.5 and 37.1°C (97.7 to 98.7°F).

Readmission to hospital

Your baby may need to be readmitted to hospital after they come home. Common reasons for readmission include infection, breathing difficulties and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of eyes). If this happens, it may be a worrying and upsetting time, especially when your baby has overcome so many difficulties already.

Babies who need to be readmitted to hospital are likely to be admitted to the children's ward, not the neonatal unit. This is a different environment to the neonatal unit, so may feel strange in comparison. You can talk to staff on the unit about how you are feeling. They will be happy to listen and support you.

How to know if your baby is becoming unwell

Some parents worry about how to recognise the signs that their baby is becoming unwell. Here are some of the things to look out for:

Being more fretful than usual. This means they may be restless, crying more than usual, or fussier than usual.

A high or low temperature.

Refusing or being reluctant to feed.

Vomiting more than usual.

A change in stools - more frequent, watery or 'explosive' than usual.

There are some signs that might show that your baby needs urgent medical advice. These include:

blotchy skin or a rash that does not fade if you press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin

pausing for a few seconds between breaths

being paler than usual

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

showing signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of eyes)

difficulty breathing (for example, their breathing being quicker and louder than usual)

a wheezing, whistling or grunting noise when your baby is breathing out.

If you notice any of these symptoms you should see your GP straight away. You can also call 111 for medical help over the phone. Call 999 immediately if you think your baby might be seriously unwell.

The Lullaby Trust have a Baby Check app that you may find helpful. It takes parents through 19 checks that they can do if their baby show signs of becoming unwell. The app is available on Android and Apple devices. Find out more here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
If your baby is unwell when you go home | Bliss

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out what to do if you think your premature or sick baby is becoming unwell after leaving the neonatal unit.

# data[].attributes.body
Your baby may be discharged with medications. These commonly include vitamins and iron supplements. Before you go home, you will be trained how to give your baby's medications by the nursing team.

You will be supplied with some medication from the hospital pharmacy to take home, however, it is important that you register your baby with a GP (ideally before you go home) so that they can continue to prescribe your baby's medication after the first couple of weeks. If you a struggling to obtain medications for your baby once you are at home, please let your outreach nurse know.

The medicines for children website above has some useful information about medicines and how to give them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our vision

Our vision is that any parent or carer, wherever they are, has information on their child's medicines that they can trust.

What we offer

Our medicines information pages cover many of the medicines that are prescribed or recommended for children by health professionals. They answer frequent questions, such as how and when to give the medicine, what to do if you forget to give the medicine, and any possible side-effects.

You can also read information or watch our short videos about giving different types of medicines, including tablets, capsules, liquid medicine, inhalers, eye drops/ointment and ear drops.

Who are we?

Medicines for Children is a partnership programme of Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), Neonatal and Paediatric Pharmacists Group (NPPG) and WellChild. Read more about us and our work.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Medicines For Children - We provide practical and reliable advice about giving medicine to your child

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our vision is that any parent or carer, wherever they are, has information on their child's medicines that they can trust. Our medicines information pages cover many of the medicines that are prescribed or recommended for children by health professionals.

# data[].attributes.body
Bliss - Going home from the NNU

# data[].attributes.headline
Preparing for home after a stay in Neonatal Care

# data[].attributes.subject
Preparing for home after a stay in Neonatal Care

# data[].attributes.body
Preparing for home after a stay in Neonatal Care

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Preparing for your baby to come home from the neonatal unit can feel exciting but may also feel daunting. You may feel worried about looking after your baby at home without the constant support of the unit. These feelings are normal, and lots of parents feel this way.

The staff on the unit will help you to get ready to leave the unit from early on in your stay. This might mean you are involved in changing nappies, giving feeds and having skin-to-skin time with your baby. The staff on the unit will want to help you feel confident in all areas of your baby's care. Your baby is coming home because they are well enough to leave the unit, and the staff are confident that you are able to look after them. We have more information about when your baby may be able to come home.

Research shows that getting involved in your baby's care can help you to feel more prepared for the transition to being at home with your baby. We have more information about how you can be involved in your baby's care on the unit that you may find helpful.

Getting organised to go home

Getting organised early will help you be able to be more prepared to look after your baby when they come home. The staff on the unit will help you to plan, and you can ask them if you have any concerns.

If you will be expressing and/or bottle feeding your baby when you go home, you may want to talk to the unit staff about bringing in the bottles or teats so that your baby can start to get used to them. You can ask the unit staff when the best time to do this might be. We have more information about feeding when you go home that you may find helpful.

If you are planning to express milk at home and are not hand expressing, you will also need your own breast pump. If the pump that you used in hospital is working well for you, you may want to buy or rent the same type of machine. Your local breastfeeding support service or health visitor may also be able to give you details of where to hire a breast pump or get a pump for a shorter term.

Staff on the unit may help you to learn how to express milk by hand. Your local breastfeeding support service or health visitor will be able to help you with this when you get home.

If you plan to breastfeed your baby at home, you may want to research the support that is available in your local area before you go home. This could come from a community breastfeeding support group or a lactation consultant. We have more information about breastfeeding here. You could ask the staff on the unit for more information.

You may also want to bring in a brightly coloured toy for your baby's cot. Bringing something which smells of home, such as a special blanket may help your baby to be comforted by familiar objects and smells when they arrive home. Check with the staff first if it is appropriate before you bring any objects onto the unit.

Many parents ask about getting special equipment for their baby, such as cots, pushchairs and car seats. The members of staff on the unit who are supporting you with your discharge or your community neonatal nurse will talk to you about any specific equipment that your baby might need, and will answer any questions you might have.

Rooming-in

Before going home, hospitals might offer you the chance to 'room-in'. This means you stay with your baby in a room on or near the unit and care for them overnight for 1 to 2 days. The aim of rooming-in is to give you more confidence in caring for your baby, while having the support of unit staff to help you if you need it.

Rooming-in can be a reassuring experience and can help you to continue to build a close relationship with your baby. It can also help you to look out for cues (your baby's way of telling you what they need) and changes in behaviour. Talk to the unit staff about whether rooming-in is available at your unit.

Registering your baby's birth

You should register your baby's birth as soon as possible. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland a baby must be registered within 42 days of being born. In Scotland, a baby must be registered within 21 days.

You need to register your baby's birth close to the hospital where your baby was born rather than close to their home address. The hospital will tell you if you can register the birth there. If parents are married, one parent can register the birth, but it is different for parents who are not married. Gov.uk has more information.

Registering your baby with a GP

You will need to register your baby with a general practitioner (GP) as soon as possible. This is important for you to get any medical prescriptions after going home. It is also important so that your baby can get their vaccinations on time.

If your baby is going home on oxygen

If your baby requires oxygen support, they may go home on oxygen. Unit staff will talk to you about this in good time so you can plan your baby's discharge together, receive training to care for your baby's oxygen needs and ask any questions. We have more information about what to prepare for when looking after your baby if they are on oxygen.

If your baby is on medication

It is possible that your baby will still need medication when you are told they can go home. Even though some babies may still have ongoing medical issues, these issues will be ones that staff are sure you are able to cope with at home. Unit staff will show you how to give your baby their medication. You should also talk to your local pharmacist to explain what medication your baby needs and to explain that you will be coming in regularly for repeat prescriptions. This will help the pharmacist to have a supply of the medication your baby needs ready for you.

If your baby has a nasogastric (NG) tube

If your baby is going home with a nasogastric tube (also called an NG tube), a member of unit staff might show you how to feed, care for and replace the tube yourself. It may be you, your health visitor or your community neonatal nurse who will replace the tube when you go home. This will depend on your baby's needs and the support the unit provides.

We have more information about tube feeding that you may find helpful.

Travelling by car

It is important to have an appropriate car seat for your baby, even if the only car journey you are going to make is from the hospital to home. If you do not own a car, you may be able to borrow or hire a baby seat to take your baby home from hospital by car or taxi. You can ask the staff on the unit if there is a local loan scheme.

Some babies may have a test to check if they fit properly in their car seat before leaving the unit. This is sometimes called a 'car seat challenge'.

We have more information about travelling by car, including information about the use of car seats with premature or sick babies.

If you have twins or multiples

If you have twins or multiples, it is common that one baby may be ready to go home before the other/s. Visiting and caring for two or more babies in different places can be emotionally and practically difficult. Your babies will only be separated if there is likely to be a long period between them being ready to go home. Units will try to ensure that babies come home at the same time if there is only likely to be a few days between them being ready.

You may want to contact Twins Trust, who provide support to parents with twins or multiples.

Preparing for discharge

Some units will have a discharge checklist for you to fill in before you leave the unit. Here are some examples of things that might be on a discharge checklist:

Do you know how to reassure your baby and make them comfortable?

Do you know how to give your baby a bath?

Have you been shown how to give your baby medication?

Have you been shown how to use and order any specialist equipment, such as a nasogastric (NG) tube and home oxygen?

If you are breastfeeding, do you have enough information and support to breastfeed and know where to go for help?

If you are expressing and bottle-feeding, or formula feeding, do you know how to sterilise bottles and make up your baby's feeds?

Have you had resuscitation training?

Do you know how to check, monitor and control your baby's body temperature?

Do you know safer sleep guidelines to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?

Do you know how to recognise if your baby is ill and what to do if they become ill?

Always remember to talk to the staff on the unit, and ask questions if you are unsure about anything. They will be happy to help you.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Take a look at our tips to help you prepare to leave the neonatal unit with your premature or sick baby.

# data[].attributes.body
EMBRACE is our Yorkshire wide ambulance service, exclusively for children and babies.

# data[].attributes.headline
Comforting methods to help a crying baby

# data[].attributes.subject
Comforting methods to help a crying baby

# data[].attributes.body
Comforting methods can help - ICON Cope

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Comfort methods can sometimes soothe the baby and the crying will stop.Think are they: hungry, tired, or in need of a nappy change? Try simple calming techniques such as singing to the baby or going for a walk. Babies can cry for different reasons like when they are hungry, wet/dirty or if they are…

# data[].attributes.body
ICON provides help and support for families.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Babies cry, you can cope When babies cry it can be stressful and overwhelming. Help is out there and all you need to do is ask. Latest news Testimonials

# data[].attributes.body
Vaccinations are safe and an important way of protecting your baby from disease.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases. This page explains how vaccines work, what they contain and the most common side effects.

Be aware of anti-vaccine stories

Anti-vaccine stories are often spread online through social media and offline.

Always get your vaccine and health information from trusted sources, such as the NHS or World Health Organisation (WHO).

The vaccine information on social media may not be based on scientific evidence and could put your child at risk of a serious illness.

All the current evidence tells us that getting vaccinated is safer than not getting vaccinated.

Things you need to know about vaccines

Vaccines:

Do

help to protect you and your child from many serious and potentially deadly diseases

protect other people in your family and community - by helping to stop diseases spreading to people who cannot have vaccines, such as babies too young to be vaccinated and those who are too ill to be vaccinated

undergo rigorous safety testing before being introduced - they're also constantly monitored for side effects after being introduced

sometimes cause mild side effects that will not last long - you may feel a bit unwell and have a sore arm for 2 or 3 days

reduce or even get rid of some diseases - if enough people are vaccinated

Don't

do not overload or weaken the immune system - it's safe to give children and adults several vaccines at a time and this reduces the amount of injections needed

do not contain mercury (thiomersal)

do not contain any ingredients that cause harm - only ingredients essential to making them safer and more effective and only in very small amounts

do not cause autism - studies have found no evidence of a link between the MMR vaccine and autism

Why vaccines are important

Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our children against ill health. They prevent millions of deaths worldwide every year.

Since vaccines were introduced in the UK, diseases like smallpox, polio and tetanus that used to kill or disable millions of people are either gone or are now very rarely seen.

Other diseases like measles and diphtheria have reduced to a very low number of cases each year since vaccines were introduced. These cases are often related to travel.

However, if people stop having vaccines, it's possible for infectious diseases to quickly spread again.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed vaccine hesitancy as one of the biggest threats to global health.

Important

If 95% of children receive the MMR vaccine, this would stop measles spreading completely.

However, measles, mumps and rubella can quickly spread again if fewer than 90% of people are vaccinated.

Everyone should be up to date with their routine vaccinations to give them the best protection.

How vaccines work

Vaccines teach your immune system how to create antibodies that protect you from diseases.

It's much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and treating them.

Once your immune system knows how to fight a disease, it can often give you life long protection.

Herd immunity

Having a vaccine also benefits your whole community through "herd immunity".

If enough people are vaccinated, it's harder for the disease to spread to those people who cannot have vaccines. For example, people who are ill or have a weakened immune system.

Vaccine safety

All vaccines are thoroughly tested to make sure they will not harm you or your child.

It often takes many years for a vaccine to make it through the trials and tests it needs to pass for approval.

Once a vaccine is being used in the UK it's also monitored for any rare side effects by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). It is also carefully monitored to make sure it still works.

Anyone can report a suspected side effect of vaccination to the MHRA through the Yellow Card Scheme.

Who cannot have vaccines

There are very few people who cannot have vaccines.

Generally, vaccines are only not suitable for:

People with weakened immune systems (for example, because of cancer treatment or a health condition) may also not be able to have some vaccines.

If you're not sure if you or your child can be vaccinated, check with a GP, practice nurse, health visitor or pharmacist.

Side effects of vaccination

Most of the side effects of vaccination are mild and do not last long.

The most common side effects of vaccination include:

the area where the needle goes in looking red, swollen and feeling a bit sore for 2 to 3 days

feeling a bit unwell or developing a high temperature for 1 or 2 days

older children and adults may feel faint

feeling tired, having a headache, mild fever, or flu-like symptoms

Some children might also cry and be upset immediately after the injection. This is normal and they should feel better after a cuddle. Common side effects usually pass after a few days.

Allergic reactions

It's rare for anyone to have a serious allergic reaction to a vaccination. If this does happen, it usually happens within minutes.

The person who vaccinates you or your child will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately. With prompt treatment, you or your child will make a good recovery.

Read vaccination tips for parents, including what to expect after vaccination

What's in a vaccine?

Most vaccines contain a small amount of bacteria, virus or toxin that's been weakened or destroyed in a laboratory first.

Some contain chemicals that make your body think it's coming into contact with the bacteria, virus or toxin.

This means there's a very low risk of healthy people catching a disease from a vaccine. It's also why you might see vaccines being called "live" or "non-live".

What's the difference between a live and a non-live vaccine?

Live (weakened) vaccines

Non-live (destroyed) vaccines

Live (weakened) vaccines

Contain viruses or bacteria that have been weakened

Non-live (destroyed) vaccines

Contain viruses or bacteria that have been destroyed

Live (weakened) vaccines

Cannot be given to people with a weakened immune system

Non-live (destroyed) vaccines

Can still be given to people with a weakened immune system

Live (weakened) vaccines

Gives long-term protection

Non-live (destroyed) vaccines

Often needs several doses or a booster vaccine for full protection

Other vaccine ingredients

Vaccines contain other ingredients that help make the vaccine more effective.

The main ingredient in vaccines is water. The other ingredients are used in very small amounts.

There is no evidence that any of the ingredients are harmful in such small amounts.

Aluminium (adjuvant)

An adjuvant is an ingredient added to vaccines in very small amounts to make them work more effectively. This may be particularly important for certain individuals, such as young babies or older people.

The most common vaccine adjuvants are aluminium salts. These have been used safely in many of our routine infant and adult vaccines for more than 70 years.

We come into contact with aluminium all the time. It's found naturally in very small amounts in:

almost all foods

drinking water

breast milk

baby formula milk

It's also used in medicines, such as antacids, and in food packaging.

There's no evidence that the levels of aluminium we come across every day increase the risk of conditions like dementia or autism.

The amount of aluminium used in non-live vaccines is very, very small. No harmful effects have been seen with vaccines that contain an aluminium-based adjuvant.

What is it?

Aluminium is a very common metal that's been used safely in vaccines for more than 70 years.

Most killed vaccines contain a very small amount of aluminium-based adjuvant to:

help to boost our immune response

make the vaccine more effective and long-lasting

reduce the amount of antigen needed in a vaccine

sometimes reduce the number of doses that need to be given

Squalene oil (adjuvant)

Adjuvants are added to vaccines in very small amounts to make the response to the vaccine more effective. They have been shown to not be harmful.

They might cause minor reactions, such as a small temporary lump or redness at the injection site.

What is it?

Squalene oil is a component of the adjuvant added to the trivalent flu vaccine and the Sanofi (VidPrevtyn) COVID-19 vaccine recommended for older adults.

It comes from marine oil and is highly purified before being used in the vaccines.

Adjuvants are added to some vaccines to:

help to boost our immune response, especially as we get older

make the vaccine more effective and long-lasting

reduce the amount of antigen needed in a vaccine

sometimes reduce the number of doses that need to be given

Pork gelatine

There have been a small number of allergic reactions to vaccines containing gelatine. Speak to your doctor first if you have a known allergy to gelatine.

Some religious groups, such as Muslims and Jews, may be concerned about using vaccines containing gelatine from pigs. But some faith group leaders have stated the use of gelatine in vaccines is acceptable and does not break any religious rules.
Read this NHS leaflet about vaccines and porcine gelatine
What is it?

Gelatine derived from pigs is used as a stabilising agent in some vaccines to:

help protect vaccines from the effects of heat or freeze-drying

help maintain the shelf life of the vaccine

The only vaccines containing gelatine in the UK routine vaccination schedule are:

the children's nasal flu vaccine

1 of the 2 types of MMR vaccine

1 of the 2 types of shingles vaccine

Human serum albumin and recombinant albumin

These are considered safe. Human serum albumin used in vaccines comes from screened blood donors. The manufacturing process ensures there is no risk of transmitting any diseases.

Recombinant albumin does not contain any human or animal products.

What are they?

Human serum albumin is a substance from human blood. It's used to stabilise a chickenpox vaccine called Varilix and maintain its quality during storage.

Recombinant albumin is produced by cells, such as yeast cells, that have had the gene for human albumin inserted into them.

The cells are then able to generate large quantities of human serum albumin without any need to extract it from human blood.

Recombinant albumin may be used in very small amounts as a stabiliser in 1 of the MMR vaccines used in the UK (MMRVaxPro).

Egg protein

Children and adults with a severe egg allergy can safely receive the MMR vaccine.

Children and adults with an egg allergy are advised to have either:

an egg-free inactivated flu vaccine

a vaccine with a very low egg protein (ovalbumin) content

The live nasal spray flu vaccine given to children has a very low egg protein content. It can be safely given to children with an egg allergy.

Children and adults who have previously had a very severe allergic reaction to eggs may be advised to have their flu vaccine in a hospital.

What is it?

There are 2 vaccines in the UK routine schedule that contain small amounts of egg protein:

the flu vaccine - which is grown on hens' eggs. It can potentially trigger an allergic reaction in people with an egg allergy

the MMR vaccine - which is grown on cells from chick embryos, which is not the same as hens' eggs. This means it does not trigger an allergic reaction

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde can be found naturally in our bloodstream at levels far higher than we would be exposed to in vaccines.

Although formaldehyde can be harmful in high concentrations, there are no health concerns about the small amounts found in vaccines.

What is it?

Formaldehyde is a chemical also used in the production of killed vaccines. It's used very early in the manufacturing process to kill or inactivate the toxins from bacteria or viruses.

Once the antigens are inactivated, the formaldehyde is diluted out. It's possible that trace amounts may remain in the final vaccine.

Antibiotics

If you know you're allergic to neomycin or any other antibiotic, speak to your doctor or practice nurse before having a vaccine.

Antibiotics known to cause allergic reactions, such as penicillin, are generally not used in vaccines.

But tiny amounts of an antibiotic called neomycin, which is capable of triggering an allergic reaction, are found in:

the MMR vaccine

6-in-1 vaccine

quadrivalent inactivated flu vaccine

4-in-1 pre-school booster vaccine Repevax

shingles vaccine

What are they?

Antibiotics are added to some vaccines to prevent the growth of bacteria during the production and storage of the vaccine.

Antibiotics can only be found in tiny amounts in the final vaccine.

A full list of any vaccine's ingredients is available on the electronic medicines compendium (emc) website

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Why vaccination is important and the safest way to protect yourself

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Read about how vaccines work, what they contain and the most common side effects.

# data[].attributes.body
We know that having a baby on the neonatal unit can have a huge impact on families. We offer a psychology service in Bradford and here is some information and support from Bliss.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
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.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Information about parents' mental health | Bliss

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
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.