Safe Sleep Scheme

This pilot scheme is to provide sleeping equipment to families with children under 5 who are living in crisis situations. The need was recognised through some conversations that Thrive hosted with parents of young families across Birmingham, including families in temporary accommodation, where we learnt that parents did not have access to Moses baskets and cots so had no option except to share their bed with their baby or toddler.

To address the issue Thrive Together Birmingham, Birmingham PlayCare Network, Spurgeons and Barnardos Childrens Centres are working together to provide equipment for families in need and have raised funds to deliver a pilot project in Perry Barr, Hodge Hill, Erdington, Ladywood, Edgbaston as they are areas where the need has been identified and where there are high numbers of families in temporary accommodation.

Families can request a Moses basket or cot/cotbed which will come with a bedding set and additional sheets, stairgates, potties and baby hygiene packs. We make sure that the family has space to accommodate the items as it is pointless ordering equipment if it can’t fit into a family’s current home.

Referrals can be made by any professional known to the family, Children Centre workers, Family support workers, Health Visitors, midwives, local community orgs working with families. Local community organisations can make a referral by contacting their local Childrens Centre and their staff will be able to complete the referral process. All requests are made through Birmingham PlayCare Network.

Parents cannot directly refer themselves to the scheme, they would need to be sponsored by a professional who would complete the support form through the Childrens Centre.