Baby bereavement suite given £100k revamp

A hospital charity has reached its £100,000 fundraising target to improve facilities for families who have lost babies.

The appeal has funded the full refurbishment of the bereavement suite at Hull Women and Children's Hospital on Anlaby Road, which supports more than 100 families each year.

WISHH said it would provide a peaceful environment where families could spend precious time with their baby during an incredibly difficult time.

The charity's chief executive, Carl Wheatley, said while nothing could take away the pain of losing a baby, the suite, along with the support of staff, could make a "meaningful difference".

The suite provides self-contained facilities, including a bedroom, living area, clinical room, catering and bathroom facilities.

Further work includes the renovation of six quiet rooms to ensure bereaved parents are supported in an appropriate space, as well as changes to the entrance and exit of the unit to provide greater privacy.

One of those who helped raise funds for the appeal was mum-of-four Juliet O'Sullivan, whose daughter, Sylvie, was stillborn.

She previously told the BBC she wanted to prevent others having "harrowing" experiences of stillbirth.

Sue Lockwood, chair of trustees at the charity, said: "We are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated and helped us reach our £100,000 target.

"Thanks to their generosity, families will now benefit from facilities that provide comfort, dignity and privacy at the most difficult time imaginable."

Listen to highlights fromHull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North.

Download the BBC News app from the App Storefor iPhone and iPad orGoogle Play for Android devices