Educational Change

The past few months have been a time of change for all of us. Here at the Scottish Cot Death Trust we have had changes within our small team.

Martin Courtney, our Education Manager, has left for pastures new after taking on a new role with a large fostering organisation. Martin was a strong team member who helped develop Safe Sleep Scotland and delivered many education sessions across Scotland. We are sure the experience Martin gained will service him well in his new role and wish him all the very best.

Our whole team have been getting to grips with the challenges of home-working this year and for our new Education Manager, lockdown has been an incredibly unique experience. Sarah joined us at the end of August and all her meetings so far, including her interview, and handover from Martin, have been virtual.

“Although we’ve not been able to meet one another in person, the team have been really welcoming and supportive during my first few weeks in post. I have soaked up so much knowledge from each member of the team in a short space of time and can’t wait to start delivering training across the country and meeting our key stakeholders – all from the comfort of my own home!”

Her role focuses on the development and delivery of education sessions across Scotland. This includes the promotion of ‘safe sleep’ and ‘reduce the risk’ messaging as well as SUDI simulation sessions. Sarah will reach out to key people who are likely be involved if a SUDI happens (including the police and A&E staff) so that we can build a supportive network of professionals across the country who can connect and learn from one another.
Sarah has worked within the charity sector for several years across fundraising and community education projects. She is passionate about supporting others and sharing our messages so that professionals and families feel comfortable and confident talking about these topics.

“There are already so many useful resources and support services that are available for professionals and families thanks to the Scottish Cot Death Trust. Through the education arm of the Trust, Safe Sleep Scotland, I am looking forward to engaging with a wide range of people to help reduce the risks of SUDI and raise awareness of the importance of this wonderful charity across Scotland.”

You can contact Sarah by emailing safesleep@scottishcotdeathtrust.org to book an education session for your organisation. To find out more about our Safe Sleep resources please visit www.safesleepscotland.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with our latest news.