Agenda item

To consider the 2025-2026 Reducing Infant Mortality Action Plan and overall approach to preventing avoidable infant deaths in Oldham.

Rebecca Fletcher and Sam McCann presented the action plan, noting that it was an update and highlighted the aims of the action plan and the achievements so far. It was noted that there were high rates of infant mortality in Oldham and that there were common factors which were similar to the national factors. It was noted that poverty was a key overarching theme within the report and that the action plan focused on a sensitive, pragmatic approach which was received by those that need it at a beneficial time. The future plans were also outlined. It was highlighted that Oldham was starting to see real changes and that partnership work was a real difference. Oldham had also seen a slight decrease in infant mortality which was positive.

Members asked whether there was an literature or resources that could be given to members to pass on. It was noted that the Lullaby Trust was a key resource library for this and that this would be beneficial for members in particularly higher risk wards. Members also queried whether any factors were higher than others. It was noted that every death was looked into and that some deaths had more than one factor contributing to it.

Members noted financial challenges and queried what the council offers and whether this was just to families in temporary accommodation. It was noted that there were baby banks across GM that were accessible to all families. It was also noted that temporary accommodation provides additional risk for infant mortality.

Members noted the difference between breast feeding and milk and queried what the Council could do on this. It was noted that broader work was being done on this issue and it could be brought to scrutiny at some point in the future.

Members noted the risk of smoking and queried whether there were risks with vaping too. It was noted that there was no real harm in this regard from nicotine and it was highlighted that vapes are supported as a tobacco reduction option. It was noted that with a focus on quitting smoking, vapes were much safer.

Members noted that around information sharing, were language barriers taken into consideration. It was noted that it was, and that messages from the Lullaby Trust were available in 40 languages and that work was being done on bespoke advice in multiple languages.

Members noted historic advice had changed and queried how this is being passed on. It was noted that good advice was given from midwives to parents but there was an acknowledgement that broader advice to other caregivers needs promoting. Advice was given to the committee around this, particularly noting the high risk of falling asleep on a sofa or chair with a baby.

Members noted that all the aims have actions and queried how this was coordinated as a strategy. It was noted that this was done through meetings and tracking.

Members queried whether resources and facilities were available around the borough, and it was advised that they were, in district and family hubs and in libraries, for example. It was noted that the aim was to make women comfortable.

Members thanked the officers for the action plan and noted their support for the strategy.