CHILDREN’S centres in York have been chosen to trial a new NSPCC film to help parents cope with their children crying.

The film, which will be rolled out across the city in the new year, aims to help parents cope with the stresses of sleeplessness and crying, and reduce the risk of losing their temper and harming their baby.

It is based on a similar programme in America which saw a reduction of nearly half in the number of babies who suffered from non-accidental head injuries.

If the trials are successful, it is hoped that the film will eventually be made available to all new parents across the country.

Over the next two years, the NSPCC will work with selected partners in a pilot project to help understand when and how the film can be shown to parents, and to demonstrate its impacts on parents and their babies.

City of York Council will be working with health visitors, midwives and the NSPCC to show local parents the film and provide their feedback.

There are nine children’s centres in York providing a range of services to children and families including early learning and childcare, relationship support, and assistance with child and family healthcare.

The centres are in Tang Hall, Carr, Clifton Green, New Earswick, Haxby Road, Hob Moor, Knavesmire, Heslington and Westfield Primary Schools.

Paula Richardson, Children’s Centre strategy manager at City of York Council, said: “This is a great opportunity to join a simple, but ground-breaking, project which could have huge benefits for parents and babies.”

Coun Janet Looker, cabinet member for education, said: “Every parent knows how difficult it can be to cope with a crying baby, particularly if you’ve not had much sleep. I’m delighted that York has been chosen to work with the NSPCC to trial this important film.”