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Written question asked by Lord Ravensdale (Crossbench) on Thursday, 23 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 August 2026. It was answered by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Friday, 4 September 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of updating the statutory child death review process to include sudden unexplained death in childhood reporting.

Answer

We recognise the devastating impact of sudden unexplained death in childhood on affected families and communities.

The Child Death Review (CDR) process was established in 2008 so that the deaths of all children would be systemically reviewed to identify learning and support bereaved families. A Child Death Overview Panel examines the circumstances of each death, identifies learning, looks for patterns and potential improvements in services, and makes recommendations aimed at preventing future deaths. Families are assigned a key worker to guide them through the CDR process and help them access appropriate support and services.

The Department is working to update the statutory CDR guidance in due course.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL2740
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Sudden unexplained death in childhood
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk