Cheshire based charity continues to support families who suffer the pain and trauma of baby loss
The Meadow Suite at Leighton Hospital has been open for two years
The Mid-Cheshire Hospital charity is continuing to raise funds to help families who suffer the pain and trauma of baby loss.
In summer 2023 Leighton Hospital in Crewe opened the Meadow Suite, which provides a dedicated baby bereavement suite created to support parents and families who are experiencing the heart breaking loss of a baby.
The space gives parents time to spend with their baby and create memories which need to last a lifetime.
It includes a private outdoor courtyard for quiet reflection, a separate entrance and exit, and a dedicated parking space, ensuring privacy for families during their most difficult moments.
Specialist bereavement midwife, Kelly Heaton said:
"In the darkest times, giving families the freedom to grieve in their own way makes a huge difference. Providing such a space for families, while offering full support, means a lot to them and to all the midwives here at Mid Cheshire.
What may seem like small details can make a big difference to a family dealing with a tremendous loss: the privacy of a private entrance, space for family to visit, a double bed for two parents to stay, carefully selected books to share with their little one.
We know the Meadow Suite is unique for a hospital of our size, and we’re so grateful to have this facility to enhance the experience we offer our patients."
Over the last couple of years the suite has made families feel comfortable, calm, and safe, with the benefit of being able to labour separately from the maternity ward coming as a huge relief.
Prior to the Meadow Suite opening, women who had a bereavement would be in the usual labour rooms, on the same corridor where other babies were being born.
An artist was also commissioned to work with bereaved families to ensure all the smaller details were also considered including the decor.
The suite was made possible thanks to money from the charity and Robertson Construction.
Emma Robertson, Head of MCH Charity, said:
“It’s so important that we acknowledge the huge impact that our Lost Little Ones Appeal had on bereaved families during Baby Loss Awareness Week. The creation of the Meadow Suite was one of the biggest achievements of MCH Charity and is a perfect example of the difference NHS charities can make to patient care and experience.
Paul Coyle, Interim Managing Director of Robertson Construction North West, commented,
“As a family business, we have family values at our core, and we understand the importance of supporting families through challenging times. Several of our colleagues have a personal understanding of the difference the Meadow Suite makes, and we’re proud to have been involved in such a meaningful project.”
You can find out more about The Meadow Suite and support the hospital charity here.