Local donation transforms family spaces at Prince Charles Hospital's Neonatal Unit
Families staying at Prince Charles Hospital’s Neonatal Unit will benefit from more welcoming and comfortable family spaces, following improvements made possible by a generous £10,000 donation from Merthyr Cage Bird Society.
The newly refreshed family bedrooms, family room and expressing facilities were officially opened on Wednesday 29 July, when members of the Society visited the unit to see how their support had helped local families.
The donation was built up through weekly collections from Society members, who raised money each week over several years. Rob, a member of Merthyr Cage Bird Society, suggested supporting the Neonatal Unit after the care his grandson received.
Speaking about the donation, Rob said:
“My grandson was treated on the Neonatal Unit eight years ago, so when we were deciding where the money should go, I suggested the unit to the other members and they all agreed.
“We collect around £70 each week from our members and, over time, that built up to the £10,000 donation. It means a lot to us to see how the money has been used and to know it will help local babies and their families.”
Led by Natalie O’Dell, Neonatal Infant Feeding Lead, the CTM NHS Charity project brought together colleagues from across the unit and several local partners to create practical changes shaped around the needs of parents.
For some families, the Neonatal Unit becomes part of daily life for days or even weeks. During what can be an emotional and uncertain time, having somewhere calm and private to rest, express milk or prepare refreshments can make a meaningful difference.
Specialist wall coverings suitable for the hospital environment, printed and installed by Cardiff Bay Print, have made the spaces feel warmer and less clinical. Improved lighting gives families more flexibility when using the new LED sky panels, while new furniture, equipment and everyday household items make longer stays a little easier.
Families are also welcomed by a new mural created by local artist Kaci Purnell of KcpArt. Developed with input from staff, the artwork brings warmth and colour and creates a special place for families to mark their baby’s journey home.
The Prince Charles Hospital Estates team also helped support the ongoing works on the unit, with painting and refurbishments to complement all the new changes.
Natalie O’Dell, Neonatal Infant Feeding Lead at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and project lead, said:
“When a baby requires neonatal care, parents can spend many days or even weeks on the unit. During that time, having somewhere comfortable, welcoming and private can make a huge difference.
“These improvements have been shaped around the practical and emotional needs of our families. They will help parents to rest and remain close to their babies, while making the spaces feel warmer and more like a home away from home.”
Abe Sampson, Head of CTM NHS Charity, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Rob and all the members of the Merthyr Cage Bird Society for this generous donation. Collecting money week after week and building it into such a generous donation shows the commitment behind their support.
Their donation has helped make the unit more welcoming and comfortable for families who may spend a great deal of time here. It is a wonderful example of local people coming together to make a real difference.”
Part of the donation will support further improvements as the needs of the unit develop and families continue to share their feedback. More work is also underway to support families using the Neonatal Unit, with help from Tilbury Douglas, which will be launching over the coming weeks.
Support from local organisations like Merthyr Cage Bird Society lets CTM NHS Charity provide extra comforts and improvements for patients and families.
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