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Research, Policies & Procedures

Winston Churchill Fellowship Report

The aim of this Fellowship was to explore international programmes related to the prevention of child maltreatment with a particular focus on the devastating form of child abuse that is Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) in infants and to gain an understanding about the wider context of the delivery of care and the systems and processes in which they are provided and commissioned. Specific outputs from the Travel Fellowship include the development of a UK based primary prevention programme.

The Fellowship has included the observation and study of the powerful programmes visited and the passionate and dedicated professionals who lead and research them. A critical analysis of the applicability of the different programmes within the UK health and social care context is considered alongside the evidence base underpinning prevention of Abusive Head Trauma and helping parents and caregivers cope with crying.


Injuries in Non-Mobile Infants

Bruising and injuries in young babies who are not rolling or crawling is unusual. National and local serious case reviews have identified the need for heightened concern about any bruising in a baby who is not independently mobile. It is important that any suspected bruising is fully assessed even if the parents or carers feel they are able to give an explanation for it.

The HIPS Protocol for the management of actual or suspected bruising in infants who are not independently mobile must be followed in all situations where an actual or suspected bruise or injury is noted in an infant who is not independently mobile. Also see the Injuries in Non-Mobile Infants section of the Safeguarding Infants Toolkit for further information.


Working with male carers to reduce non accidental injuries to infants under 1 year old

This joint briefing from the Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel (the Panel) and Foundations – What Works Centre for Children & Families shares information arising from work undertaken by the Panel and Foundations with safeguarding partners and those working in child protection.


Engaging dads pocket guide

Created in collaboration with the Fatherhood Institute, this Royal College of Midwives pocket guide is designed to support midwives in providing a more inclusive experience for fathers and partners during the antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal period.