Support for parents when faced with persistent infant crying

This September, health and care organisations are uniting to deliver crucial messages to parents about how best to respond to a crying baby.

Research indicates that some parents and carers may lose control and shake their baby when faced with persistent crying.

Doing so can lead to abusive head trauma, and can result in the child developing brain injuries that could stay with them for the rest of their lives.

ICON is a UK-wide programme aimed at educating health and social care professionals, parents and carers about infant crying, effective coping strategies and how to prevent AHT.

The third annual ICON Week, which runs between Monday 23 and Friday 27 September 2024, seeks to raise awareness about these issues and support families in managing stress related to infant crying.

During the week, participating organisations, including Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, will promote these messages to normalise infant crying and provide practical coping techniques for parents.

More information about ICON Week 2024 can be found online at www.iconcope.org.