The SCBU provides specialist care for babies who are born prematurely or require additional medical support in their early days of life. The team care not only for the newborns, but also offer vital support and reassurance to families during what can be a challenging time.
On 1 April 2025, Claire Harris, Foundation Manager for the Emily Harris Foundation, visited the unit to deliver a wide range of thoughtful items. These included welcome packs for new parents, food to set up a snack station, breastfeeding pillows, activity packs for siblings, and a Polaroid camera with film to help families capture special moments during their baby’s stay.
In addition to these items, the charity also provides ongoing support in a number of ways, such as funding weekly bus tickets for parents facing travel difficulties, covering costs for relevant staff training and study days, and helping families access psychological support – all with the aim of easing some of the pressures that come with having a baby in hospital.
Claire Harris, Foundation Manager at the Emily Harrison Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support the Special Care Baby Unit at Bassetlaw Hospital. Our mission is to make a positive difference for families during their neonatal journey, and we hope these items – and our ongoing support – help families feel cared for and connected. It’s a privilege to work with such a dedicated team.”
Just under 10% of live births in England and Wales are pre-term, equating to approximately 58,000 babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy each year. Support during these earliest moments of life is crucial – helping to give babies the best possible start and laying the foundations for a healthy and independent future.
Caroline Davies, Ward Manager for the SCBU, added: “We are so grateful for this incredibly generous donation. These items will make such a difference to the experience of our families, helping them feel welcome, supported and cared for. We’re thrilled to have been chosen to receive this support.”
The Trust would like to thank Claire and the Emily Harris Foundation for their continued generosity and dedication to improving care for our smallest patients and their families.
