A MAJOR appeal has been launched to create a bereavement suite for families affected by a stillborn birth at Hereford County Hospital.

The Born Sleeping Appeal will help to fund a suite to give bereaved parents and their families a private sanctuary to use as they come to terms with the loss of their baby.

The suite will have an en-suite family room to allow partners to stay overnight and other family members to visit in a private setting, and a counselling room.

The new facility will be available to families who lose a baby to stay in after the birth for as long as they wish.

Lead midwife Helen Price said: "By creating the suite within the maternity department, we will be able to offer mothers a more comfortable environment.

“Sadly, the death of a baby may sometimes occur during pregnancy or labour. Such a loss at any stage of pregnancy is devastating for both the mother and the families involved.

“This dedicated suite will provide families with a comfortable environment where they can receive the care and support they need at a time of great difficulty.

“It will allow families to come to terms with their loss at their own pace with the acute pressures of being on a busy delivery suite.”

The number of babies stillborn nationally last year was just over 3,000.

Helen added: “This suite, away from the main delivery area and maternity ward, will give those affected by a stillborn birth the privacy and calm surroundings they need to come to terms with their loss.

“It will make a huge difference and we’re hoping that local people will help support the campaign.”

People wanting to donate can visit justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/wyevalleynhstrust/bornsleeping17 or text BABY26 and your amount to 70700.

If you would like to organise your own fundraising event or for further information, please call Katie Farmer at the County Hospital on 01432 364078 or email fundraising@wvt.nhs.uk