Baby Bank Network Bristol has introduced emergency newborn bundles at Southmead Hospital for families welcoming a child without the essentials to take them home, in partnership with North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT) Maternity Services.
Healthcare professionals at the maternity unit are now able to provide immediate support to new parents experiencing poverty, crisis or other challenges – ensuring every baby can be safely discharged with clothing, nappies and toiletries.
This is the first initiative of its kind from Baby Bank Network, and has been developed thanks to conversations with NBT maternity colleagues that revealed how many families passing through the unit are struggling for newborn essentials.
Each carefully assembled ‘grab bag’ contains everything a new baby needs for their first few days, including sleepsuits, nappies, muslins and a blanket, alongside toiletries and a few treats for mum. The bundles are presented as gifts and include a card signposting families to further support.
Healthcare professionals will identify families in their care who would benefit from this immediate support bundle, which might include young parents, those experiencing homelessness, refugees, asylum seekers and families facing mental health challenges.
NBT is already part of Baby Bank Network's team of referral partners, which supports between 30 and 40 families every week, and this new programme builds on the existing partnership.
CEO and Co-founder of Baby Bank Network Bristol, Becky Gilbert, said: “Last year we helped around 1,370 Bristol families who are facing poverty or crisis. This often meant providing a pre-loved cot so a baby has a safe place to sleep, or passing on a pushchair so a young family can get out and about.
“Through our close partnership with NBT, we also know some families need even more immediate support, so they can be safely discharged after birth.
“We’re really pleased to be able to provide these emergency newborn bundles, which will make it easier for midwives and healthcare staff to provide vital support to families at the point of need. We like to think it’s a small act of kindness at what can be a really overwhelming time. And once they’re back home, families can be referred back to Baby Bank through their health visitor or children's centre for further support and other essential items.”
NBT Complex Care Midwife Sharon Cohen said: "Our community teams support women and families throughout their pregnancy, and are often able to identify and support those in need before their baby is born. Sometimes however, we welcome women into the hospital for their baby's birth and realise that in fact this is a family who really need urgent support. It is fantastic to be able to offer immediate relief for families, building trust and hope at a time when they need it most.”
NBT Director of Midwifery and Nursing for the Women and Children’s Division, Julie Northrop added: “Our partnership with Baby Bank Network Bristol is a powerful example of how health services and community organisations can work together to reduce inequalities from the very start of a child’s life.
“This initiative allows our midwives to respond immediately and compassionately when we identify families facing hardship, ensuring every newborn has a safe and supported start in life. It reflects our shared commitment to equity, dignity and personalised care at one of the most important moments for families.”
The collaboration comes at a time when demand for baby bank support is increasing. With 4.5 million children living in poverty in the UK, the network of more than 400 baby banks – including Baby Bank Network Bristol, plays a crucial role in ensuring families can welcome their babies with dignity.