Supporting Nottingham's smallest patients
Help us continue to support Nottingham's smallest patients at Nottingham Children's Hospital
The brand-new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Queens Medical Centre opened its doors in December 2024. Thanks to your generous donations, we've been able to support some of Nottingham's tiniest patients, helping to create a family-friendly environment and provide additional specialist equipment for the Neonatal Unit.
Now the largest in the East Midlands, this incredible facility is designed to provide a true ‘home from home’ for families. Thanks to your amazing support, we’ve funded over £322,000 worth of enhancements to make the unit family-friendly and welcoming and bring the project to life.
Take a look at some of the ways we've support Nottingham's Neonatal Unit
Privacy screens
Your donations have helped to provide special privacy screens to help parents and families have some space and privacy with their babies. These specially designed screens feature calming wildflower artwork which helps create a homely environment across the unit.
Family room
The new Neonatal Unit features a brand new family room which contains comfortable furniture and play equipment, including a Wendy house, to give parents and siblings a homely space besides the ward whilst still being near to their baby.
Breast pumps
New mothers will be able to express milk during their time on the unit thanks to newly funded breast pumps. These will help new mothers to bond with their baby as well as providing healthy nourishment which will help with development.
Welcoming artwork
Donations have helped us provide a grant of £3,600 which has helped make the entrance to the new unit more welcoming for parents, families and visitors. The new artwork, helps everyone feel more at home when visiting the unit and creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Charging Points
Specialist charging points will help families stay connected with their loved ones during a difficult time.
As part of a special opening event in December 2024, we were joined by Baby Neco and his family, familiar faces from our Big Appeal. Born 17 weeks early, Baby Neco spent 21 weeks on the unit and returned with mum Erin and dad Ben to help mark this exciting milestone.
On returning to the unit, Neco and his family were able to see the impact of our Big Appeal first hand. Erin, Neco’s mum said:
"The new unit is going to make such a difference to new parents who are going to experience a stay in the Neonatal Unit. It’s more comfortable and vibrant than it was when I had Neco, it doesn’t look as dull and daunting when you first walk through the doors. The new unit is amazing, and future parents will have much more space rather than being enclosed."
We're thrilled to continue to support Nottingham hospitals Neonatal Unit through our Big Appeal. Earlier this year, we welcomed England Cricket legend Stuart Broad to QMC for a behind-the-scenes look at the new department. Stuart's mum Carole, talked about the impact the Neonatal Unit had on their family when Stuart was born early.
Watch their emotional video below: