NSPCC campaign calls for greater support for vulnerable babies

The NSPCC has launched a new campaign to highlight the vulnerability of babies and the needs of new parents.

'All babies count' reveals that babies are eight times more likely to be killed than any other child age group, and that babies with parents who experience mental health problems, domestic violence and addiction are at even greater risk.

The NSPCC's report shows that in the UK:

• 144,000 babies under one are living with a parent who has mental health problems.
• 109,000 babies have a parent with drug or alcohol problems.
• 39,000 babies are living in a home where there is domestic violence.

NSPCC's chief executive, Andrew Flanagan, said:

"Evidence from early intervention programmes shows that intervening early can remove the future risk of abuse or neglect. And it also makes sound economic sense. Investing in preventing harm is a more effective way of spending money than trying to pick up the pieces of children's broken lives in the years after abuse has happened.

"We're calling on the Government to join us in focussing attention, resources and expertise to demonstrate that All Babies Count. The Government's focus on early intervention is welcome, but we now need action."