My name is Faye Tott, and I am the Family Integrated Care/FICare Co-ordinator at Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which includes the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Luton and Dunstable University Hospital—a Level 3 unit known for its commitment to Family Integrated Care (FICare). Treating over 900 babies annually with a 37-cot capacity, we provide the highest level of Neonatal Intensive Care and are one of only three high-level Neonatal Units in the East of England. However, our unit was originally built for just 20 cots, so the demand for our specialist services has outgrown our current resources.

To meet this growing need, Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is developing a new, larger NICU with improved facilities at the L&D site. The Acute Services and New Ward Block currently being built includes the second floor consisting of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (ITU) and High Dependency Unit (HDU), Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) and Transitional Care. (TC)

Since February 2024, I have been working alongside an incredible team of former NICU Parents from L&D on several projects, including the NICU New Build. Through a WhatsApp group and regular online meetings, these parents have provided invaluable feedback and support.

Thanks to the generosity of the Charity Team, our Parent Development Group (PDG) had the opportunity in October 2024 to tour the new Acute Services Block, including the Delivery Suite and NICU. Their reaction was one of amazement and excitement at the improved Neonatal Unit space and enhanced Family Facilities. Which includes: a NICU Waiting Area, Family Sitting Room with Kitchenette & Sibling area, Parent(s) Milk Kitchen, Milk Expressing Room, Counselling Room, two Rooming in Rooms with En-suite & Bereavement Suite with En-suite.

At Bedfordshire Hospitals, Our mission is to empower Parent(s) as primary caregivers by creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where they feel engaged, educated, and supported throughout their NICU journey. We are firm believers that every family deserves equitable access to resources that enhance their experience – and to achieve this, additional funding is urgently needed. Therefore all funds raised will go toward furnishing and equipping our new Family Facilities. This includes essential items such as: brand-new furniture, white goods, bedding, kitchenware, appliances, toys, books, and other home comforts that help create a warm, nurturing space for families during a challenging time.

I, and my PDG need your help & support to raise an additional £75,000 to improve and enhance the vital Family Facilities within the new NICU space in the Acute Service Block which is due to open later this year. Therefore every contribution—big or small—will make a meaningful difference for families navigating their NICU journey.

“Being part of the PDG has been truly rewarding, and at times overwhelming, but it really feels great to give back to this incredible team. Having the opportunity to be so involved in such an important project is a privilege and I am honoured to be a part of this working group, and to be able to give back, and make a difference to future families that will access the service. Attention to every little detail has been thought of and every penny truly counts in making this the best possible environment for families.” - Jessica Langford.

To find out more, or to help us reach our target, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at: Faye.tott@ldh.nhs.uk

To view more, including the progress of the New Acute Service Block and NICU, please visit: https://www.bedfordshirehospitals.nhs.uk/corporate-information/redevelopment/main-ld-scheme/

Together, we can create a space where families feel comforted, included, and empowered.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=5nWRQ8z0dL0

Thank you 🫶🏼