£1 Million Donation Advances Neonatal Family Accommodation Project

Significant funding milestone reached for Bradford neonatal care support

A £1 million donation from The Harry and Mary Foundation has marked a major milestone in a £3 million fundraising appeal to build a new accommodation facility for families of babies receiving neonatal care at Bradford Royal Infirmary.

Support for families with premature and unwell babies

Each year, approximately 500 babies are admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Bradford Royal Infirmary. Many of these infants are born prematurely, some as early as 22 weeks, or face serious health challenges requiring specialist care.

To support families during this difficult time, Bradford Hospitals Charity and The Sick Children’s Trust are developing a new “Home from Home” facility close to the NICU. The accommodation will include:

• Five new en-suite bedrooms
• A large communal kitchen and lounge
• Washing and laundry facilities
• A quiet garden
• A play area for siblings

The new building will complement the existing five bedrooms and small family kitchen and lounge currently available, providing more families with a free place to stay near their babies.

Community and personal impact

The Harry and Mary Foundation, which supports health initiatives in Bradford and surrounding areas, described the donation as their largest to date. Trustees expressed that the project aligns with their mission to promote well-being among young people in the city.

Parents who have experienced neonatal care have contributed to fundraising efforts. One mother, Camélia, shared her experience of having her son Celestin born at 24 weeks. The availability of accommodation near the NICU allowed her to stay close to her baby throughout his four-month stay, which she described as invaluable for her family.

Staff perspective and project timeline

Vicky Jones, Perinatal Palliative Care Co-ordinator at Bradford Royal Infirmary, highlighted the emotional challenges families face and the importance of comfortable accommodation to support their basic needs during neonatal care.

Construction of the new facility is scheduled to begin in 2026, with completion expected within 12 months. Families may be able to use the accommodation as early as 2027.

Ongoing fundraising and community involvement

Over £500,000 has already been raised through contributions from parents, staff, community groups, and businesses. The appeal continues to seek donations and support from the public.

From 2 to 9 December, donations made through the Big Give Christmas Challenge will be matched, doubling their value to the appeal.

For those interested in supporting or learning more about the project, contact details are available through Bradford Hospitals Charity.