'The death of a baby is like a stone cast into the stillness of a quiet pool: the ripples of despair sweep out in all directions, affecting many, many people.'
De Fraun 1991
Privacy
We have a quiet area away from the immediate clinical situation where you can spend time with your baby. We are available if you need us. During this time your baby can be held, bathed and dressed, visited by family and if you wish you can take your baby home.
We will liaise with all religious and cultural organisations. There is a 24hour on call system for members of the hospital clergy to visit. Parents may use their own chaplain if they wish. Baptisms can be celebrated on the Neonatal unit.
We try to help you to preserve some memories of your baby by taking photographs; hand and footprints and when possible a lock of hair. These are kept and given to parents at an appropriate time. A camera and video are available for your use or with assistance from staff.
Follow up support
The staff on the Neonatal Unit will support you as much as they can as will your midwife and doctors and, on going home, your GP and health visitor.
We have close links with the team at general office who are able to guide you through the sensitive issues around registration of the death and planning the funeral. The team are very approachable.
The doctor (Neonatalogist) who has been caring for your baby will contact you to arrange a meeting to discuss any issues and offer support for the future.
Useful Contacts
Child Bereavement Trust
Leaflets and books for bereaved families.
Aston House,
The High Street,
West Wycombe,
Bucks
HP14 3AG
Child Death Helpline
A helpful line for all those affected by the death of a child. It is confidential and operated from Great Ormond Street and Alder Hey Children's Hospital.
Freephone 0800 282986
Every evening from 7pm-10pm. Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10am-1pm
Alder Hey Royal Liverpool Children's NHS Trust
Alder Hey
Eaton Road
Liverpool
L12 2AP
Telephone 0151 228 4811 (daytime)
Helpline 0151 228 9759 (evening)
Leaflets from the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society (SANDS)
Telephone counselling and groups for bereaved families
28 Portland Place
London
W1B 1LY
Helpline: 020 7436 5881