Better leave for safer sleep

We know that when parents are better supported, it is easier to sleep babies more safely. That’s why we’re backing Dad Shift’s call to increase statutory paternity leave.

A baby is sleeping in a safer sleep position in a cot. The dad is holding a hand on his chest and head. The baby has a dummy.

At just two weeks, the UK’s statutory paternity leave is the least generous in Europe. This is despite the evidence being clear that better paternity leave is good for all parents and children.

The government is currently reviewing paternal leave and pay, and they’re asking for input from parents and carers. This is your chance to share your experience as a parent, carer or a bereaved family member and help shape policies that can support safer sleep for all babies.

Have your say today

Two men holding a baby wrapped in a pink blanket.

Why we’re supporting Dad Shift’s ask:

More rest = safer choices. Longer paternity leave can mean less sleep deprivation for both parents. More rest can make it easier for parents and carers to follow a routine and safer sleep guidance. For example, they may be less likely to unintentionally fall asleep on the sofa with their baby, which significantly increases their baby’s risk of SIDS.

Sharing the night shift. When two-parent households supported, they can take turns during the night which can help to reduce exhaustion and improve parents’ physical and mental health. Better support for families. A fairer and more flexible parental leave system would better support families juggling the reality of family life today. Parents should be supported in bonding with their baby, recovering, and sleeping – helping them provide the safest care for their baby.

The Dad Shift

If you’re a parent, carer, bereaved family member or simply someone who wants to support babies and their families please have your say today.

We can work together to ensure families are better supported, and are given a safer start to life.

Learn more

A baby is being put down to sleep in a cot. They are looking up at their parent.

Safer sleep overview

Our safer sleep advice explains the steps you can take to keep your baby safer, reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Lady standing, holding her baby and leaning against a wardrobe.

Sleep deprivation

Coping with sleep deprivation as a new parent or carer can be tough. Your baby will probably wake up often and it can be hard to stay awake to keep them safe. You’re not alone.

Sleep deprivation

A family are gathered around their baby. They are all smiling and looking at the baby and the baby is sat in between two of the men.

Baby safety

We're here to keep babies safe by empowering families and professionals with trusted advice. That advice has been developed after decades of research, that still continues today.