All Babies Count

I was contacted this week by the NSPCC about the "All Babies Count" campaign and whilst the facts of it might be uncomfortable for us to read, particularly at a time of year that is so family-oriented I felt it was an important campaign to write about here.  All babies deserve a chance in life don't you think? But about 23 are killed from neglect, substance misuse or abuse each year. 

The campaign is raising awareness of the plight of vulnerable babies. NSPCC research shows that babies are more likely to suffer neglect and abuse and are eight times more likely to be killed than children of any other age. Almost half of all serious cases of abuse and neglect involve children under one, who are particularly susceptible to long-term harm. I know no one wants to read this before Christmas, or at any time really, but it's happening and we can't be blind to it.

The NSPCC is working on a number of innovative programmes to try and prevent the neglect and abuse of babies. But it needs our help to encourage the Government to make more of the vital services available for parents who need support in caring for their child.

The most important element of the campaign is the pledge.  The more people who sign this pledge, the better case the NSPCC has to show the UK Government that more needs to be done to help vulnerable babies. 

You can see the pledge here on the All babies count website: http://allbabiescount.nspcc.org.uk.

Go and visit and sign the pledge. Please. 

And if that doesn't convince you, watch this short video which explains why babies are at risk and what can be done to help them.