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Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood: Farnham and Bordon

Asked by Gregory StaffordConservativeDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 17 March 2025UIN 37025

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether local authorities in Farnham and Bordon have access to a dedicated key worker for families affected by Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood; and whether there is a formal referral process to SUDC UK for additional support.

Answered by Ashley Dalton

We recognise the devastating impact of sudden unexplained death in childhood (SUDC) on affected families and communities, and the importance of raising awareness of SUDC amongst relevant professionals, communities and parents.

Information on SUDC is available at the following link, which also signposts to SUDC.UK:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sudden-infant-death-syndrome-sids/

Additional information for parents on SUDC is available in the form of the booklet "When a Child Dies".

Health visitors in particular play a key role in supporting child health, wellbeing, and parenting confidence. We are committed to strengthening health visiting services, ensuring we have the staff needed so parents and families receive appropriate care from the right professional.

Overall, local authorities determine what public health services they fund, to ensure these are tailored to their local needs. The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the health workforce data for individual local authorities or the training they receive.

In schools, the Department for Education is funding mental health and wellbeing support for school and college leaders. This includes professional supervision and counselling for those who need it. Support continues to be available and can be accessed by visiting the Education Support website, which is available at the following link:

https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/

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