Seren Dwt Boxes for CTM Families

Expectant parents or those whose babies are born with Down's syndrome across Cwm Taf Morgannwg, will now receive a 'Seren Dwt' box thanks to two mums who have set about changing the support available for parents in Wales.

Laura and Louise each have a child who was diagnosed with Down's syndrome after birth, and are working with Cwm Taf Morgannwg and other Welsh Health Boards to create special boxes for parents of children with Down syndrome.

After sharing their experience of having children with Down's syndrome, they decided to launch 'Seren Dwt', meaning 'Dinky Stars', boxes.

They explained: “When our children were born, we were given 'information' about Down's Syndrome in hospital, in what can only be described as 'very poor quality'. It felt like a bereavement document.

“We were fortunate to have the love and support of family and friends, but we want to ensure that ALL parents who have a baby with Down's syndrome feel that their baby is truly celebrated and welcome in this world from the moment they are born as all babies should be.​

“We hope these boxes will give new parents the comfort and support that they may need in what can be a confusing and upsetting time. It will celebrate their new arrival with the love they deserve, and gently signpost families to support available, both locally and nationally, should they want it.

“The contents of the boxes includes some lovely things to celebrate the birth of a baby with some information just to sign post parents when they're ready, when they want to, to find more information rather than turning to Google, finding lots of outdated images and information."

Pictured is CTM Head of Midwifery Sarah Fox with Laura and Louise and their children Mya and Arwel.