The Neonatal team at Royal Cornwall Hospital is calling on the local community to help raise £10,000 to transform an existing room on the unit into a welcoming, non-clinical space for parents and families.
Having a baby receiving neonatal care can be an incredibly emotional and challenging experience. While parents want to remain close to their baby, spending long periods on a busy clinical unit can be overwhelming.
With support from Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity’s Neonatal Fund, the team hopes to create a calming space where parents can step away from the clinical environment without going far from their baby.
The room would feature comfortable seating and a softer, more homely feel, giving parents somewhere to relax, talk with other families or simply take some quiet time.
Mel Frost, Ward Manager, said:
“When your baby needs neonatal care, your whole world can suddenly feel very different. Parents can spend many hours with us, often during an incredibly worrying and emotional time.
“We want to create a space that feels completely different from the clinical environment. Somewhere calm and comfortable where parents can have a cup of tea, talk to another parent or simply have a few quiet moments to themselves.
“Having somewhere like this, close to their baby, could make such a difference to families. We would be incredibly grateful for any support from our local community.”
Alongside the campaign, a new video has been launched showcasing the work of the Neonatal Unit and the difference charitable donations make to babies and families.
The film highlights the specialist care provided by the team and the important role community support plays in helping the Neonatal Fund provide equipment, family support and enhancements to the care environment.
Mel added:
“Our team cares for a wide range of babies who need specialist support after birth. This video helps tell their stories and highlights the difference our local community makes through its support of the Neonatal Fund.”
The team is inviting local people, businesses, schools and community groups to help reach the £10,000 target by making a donation or organising their own fundraiser.
Karen Murrish, Fundraising Manager at Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity, said:
“We are pleased to support the team with their fundraising and help bring their plans for this special space to life. Every donation, large or small, will take them one step closer to their £10,000 target.”
For more information, to donate or to organise a fundraiser, visit the Neonatal Unit page on the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity website. https://charity.royalcornwallhospitals.nhs.uk/about-us/funds/neonatal-unit/
