A hard-hitting video narrated by broadcaster Steph McGovern is warning parents about the risks of co-sleeping with young babies.
On Teesside there have sadly been a number of avoidable deaths in recent years as a result of adults sharing a bed with a baby.
Now a new campaign launched in the run-up to Christmas is highlighting the risk of co-sleeping after adults have drunk alcohol, used recreational or prescribed drugs or are simply exhausted.
Mark Adams, Joint Director of Public Health South Tees, said:
“We know there are times when lots of parents safely co-sleep with their babies, but there are definitely circumstances when it is not safe.
“The safest place for a baby to sleep is in a cot or bed or their own. It’s simply not worth the risk when drink or drugs have been involved. There are also risks when parents who are excessively tired. Please think about the safety of your child.”
The new video sees actors play the part of parents who share a bed with their baby after using drink and drugs.
Parents can get detailed advice about safe sleeping from their health visitor, midwife or the Lullaby Trust.
The public information campaign is being overseen by the Tees Child Death Overview Panel, chaired by Mr Adams.
You can see the video narrated by Steph McGovern online here.