Injuries in non-mobile infants or children are unusual, although occasionally they do occur. They must never be interpreted in isolation. Professionals should always consider the age of the child and developmental milestones. There are two separate risks that need to be 5 considered, firstly the clinical significance of any injury sustained and secondly the potential safeguarding risk inherent in the situation. While the clinical risk may be low e.g. an isolated bruise with no other injury, the safeguarding risk may be high and needs careful evaluation. Serious case reviews (now known as Child Safeguarding Practice Reviews – CSPR) locally and nationally have identified cases where there was an undue reliance on the medical assessment and a lack of curiosity about the broader family situation. This can result in children being left in situations of high risk of physical harm to them.
The Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership and the BCP Safeguarding Children Partnership have an established protocol for responding to actual or suspected bruises or other injuries in non-mobile babies and children [1] which practitioners working across both Local Authority areas must adhere to. This also includes a dedicated flowchart [2]. It is important to note that the remit of the protocol also includes children with disabilities who are unable to crawl or pull to stand.
Supporting Parents Through Infant Crying: Guidance for Professionals
Parents often encounter moments of intense stress, exhaustion, and emotional overwhelm, particularly during the early years of a child’s life. As professionals working closely with families, you play a crucial role in recognising these pressures, responding with empathy, and signposting parents to practical, evidence-informed support such as the ICON: Babies cry – you can cope! [3]programme.
Understanding the Pressure Parents Face
Periods of inconsolable crying, broken sleep, and shifting routines can leave even the most resilient parents feeling unsure or isolated. Many feel guilty for struggling, or worry that admitting stress reflects on their ability to cope. Creating a safe, non‑judgmental space can be transformative. Parents are far more likely to open up when they feel heard, validated, and supported.
What Professionals Can Do
1. Normalise the experience
Gently reinforcing that stress, frustration, and uncertainty are common helps reduce shame. Highlight that infant crying, especially in the first few months, is normal and not a reflection of parental ability.
2. Encourage safe coping strategies
ICON’s core messages—I Infant crying is normal, C Comforting methods can help, O It’s OK to walk away, N Never shake a baby – equip parents with simple tools to navigate high‑stress moments safely. Remind them that stepping away for a moment, ensuring the baby is safe, can be a protective act.
3. Look for signs of strain
Changes in mood, expressions of hopelessness, or comments about “not being able to cope” warrant gentle exploration. Early intervention, whether through listening, reassurance, or referral, prevents issues from escalating.
4. Signpost clearly and confidently
Direct parents to supportive frameworks like ICON Cope, local family hubs, helplines, and community groups. Many parents do not know support exists until a trusted professional mentions it.
Building Trust and Reducing Stigma
Parents are more likely to engage when they feel supported rather than judged. Using calm, inclusive language and recognising the strengths they already show helps reduce barriers to communication. Small actions, like reassuring that “many parents feel this way”, can make a measurable difference.
Your Impact Matters
Every conversation with a struggling parent is an opportunity to protect a child, support a family, and promote healthier coping strategies. By sharing simple, clear guidance and creating a supportive environment, you help parents move from overwhelm to confidence.
For further advice and resources to share with families, visit ICON Cope [4].
Please see the following sources of information to refer to:
Pan-Dorset protocol for bruises or injuries to non-mobile babies and children [1] (including flowchart)
NICE guidance [5]
RCPCH [6]
The Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel briefing paper [7]