A group of staff from the Bradford Neonatal Service are taking part in the Great North Run this year. This is to fundraise for The Big Neonatal Appeal which aims to help families to be close to their babies while in hospital. The team have varying running abilities so this really is challenge for some of us!

Bradford's Neonatal Unit at Bradford Royal Infirmary cares for up to 500 babies each year. Approximately one baby in 10 requires admission to the unit, which takes babies from all over the Yorkshire and Humber region and beyond. Staff provide intensive care treatments to babies born early or poorly.

The unit currently has a small area for families to sit, and a small kitchen, neither of which are big enough to accommodate all parents. We believe that, like the babies who are cared for and treated on the unit, our families deserve the best. We would like to refurbish and extend all our facilities to make the unit a true home-from-home.

While the unit currently has two bedrooms to accommodate parents, the appeal aims to raise enough money to:

- Build an extension of five additional ensuite bedrooms

- Create a tranquil outdoor sanctuary for parents to be able to reflect in peace and quiet, and for children to play

- Refurbish living and kitchen spaces, where parents can prepare food, eat, and entertain siblings

- Refurbish play areas and purchase a range of toys and books to help calm siblings who may be unsettled and anxious

Nothing can prepare families for their time on the Neonatal Unit, but we can make it that little bit more bearable.

To see some of the families you could help, please watch the video created a few years ago at the beginning of our fundraising journey. https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=sCEyyEL64yY&t=8s