Cot Death, more correctly known as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) was defined in 1969 as "the sudden death of a infant or young child which is unexpected by history and in which a thorough post mortem examination fails to demonstrate an adequate cause for death"

SIDS is now rarely used on death certificates in Scotland. Terms such as Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy and Unascertained are now much more likely to be used.

The Trust offers support to all families who have suffered the sudden unexpected death of their baby or young child and to the professionals dealing with such a tragedy.

A range of leaflets have been produced for families and a bereavement support worker is available to visit the family in their home or provide telephone support. In addition, parents can be put in contact with a befriender – a parent who has suffered a Cot Death in the past and who is now willing to offer support and hope to the newly bereaved family.

We have compiled a list of questions that are frequently asked, such as:

• What is Cot Death?
• How common is Cot Death?
• What happens when a Cot Death occurs?
• Can I take my baby in an aeroplane?
• What kind of bedding is safest for my baby?
• Is it safe for my twins to share a cot?

While no-one understands what causes Cot Death, research has shown that by following the advice below the risk can be substantially reduced:

• Place baby on the back to sleep
• Avoid smoking during pregnancy - fathers too!
• Do not let anyone smoke in the same room as your baby
• Avoid overheating baby
• Keep baby's head uncovered - place baby's feet at the bottom of the cot
• Do not share a bed with your baby if you have been drinking alcohol, take drugs or if you are a smoker
• Consult a doctor if baby seems unwell

There are many ways of raising funds for the Trust.

You can either decide to organise your own event – walks, cycles, slims are good ideas – or participate in one of the many Marathons which take place country-wide.

The Scottish Cot Death Trust is one of the first Scottish charities to become a member of the Fundraising Standards Board (FRSB).