This research study aims to learn about the experiences of parents whose babies have died unexpectedly. By learning of parents experiences it is hoped to improve things in the future for other bereaved parents.

Here you can find out about who can take part in the West Midlands SUDI Study, what taking part in the study involves and what to do if you would like further information or to take part in the study.

Who can take part in the West Midlands SUDI Study? The research team are looking for bereaved parents whose babies died suddenly and unexpectedly, from September 2010 or later and who live in the West Midlands region to take part. The West Midlands region includes the counties of Hereford, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire. A doctor has already told me about the West Midlands SUDI study - is this the same one? Many bereaved parents in the West Midlands will have been told about the study already by a doctor. If you have agreed to take part already you need not do anything else, and the research team thank you very much for your time and help. If you did not want to take part in the study when your doctor spoke to you about it you can still take part now if you would like to.

What does taking part in the West Midlands SUDI Study involve?

There are three ways you can take part in the study.

1. Be interviewed at home
   A researcher will visit you at home to interview you about your baby’s death and what happened afterwards. The interview will take around one hour. You will also be asked for your permission for the research team to look at your baby’s hospital records, your own GP records and any police, coroners or social service records relating to your baby’s death.
   A few parents will be asked to have a second longer interview, lasting around two hours, talking about the events of your baby’s death in more detail. This interview will be audio recorded.
2. Complete a questionnaire.
   You will be sent a questionnaire to complete about your baby’s death and what happened afterwards. You will also be asked for your permission for the research team to look at your baby’s hospital records, your own GP records and any police, coroners or social service records relating to your baby’s death.
3. Allow the research team to see your records
   If you do not want to be interviewed or complete a questionnaire you can still take part in the study. You will also be asked for your permission for the research team to look at your baby’s hospital records, your own GP records and any police, coroners or social service records relating to your baby’s death.

How do I get further information or take part in the study?

For more information or to take part in the study, please email wmsudi@warwick.ac.uk. Alternatively, telephone or text +44 (0)7920531215 to leave a message for the research team.

Project funded by: