SOUTHEND Hospital’s neonatal unit has become the first unit in the region to be awarded a Unicef accreditation for its innovative work with families.

The unit has been awarded Stage 1 accreditation of the Unicef Baby Friendly Initiative neonatal enhanced standards, becoming one of only four units in the country – and the only unit in the east of England – to receive the accolade.

The assessment focuses on standards of care, breastfeeding advice, and help for new families.

Senior neonatal sister, Emily Gaff, said: “We’re delighted to have achieved this accreditation which acknowledges the high standards of care the team provides to vulnerable babies and their families. Research has shown playing music can help with the bonding process which is key to brain development, so for one hour in the afternoon we play music such as nursery rhymes or Disney songs in the special care nursery.

“We’ve had some really positive feedback from parents who feel it offers some light relief at what can be a stressful and emotional time. It’s also a way of including the whole family. We often have grandparents and siblings singing along to the songs!”

In her report, Unicef’s UK Baby Friendly Initiative deputy programme director, Carmel Duffy, spoke of “a family centred approach within the unit” and “excellent innovation in place with breast milk valued and emphasis on developmental care and involving parents as full partners in their baby’s care.”

The report also praises the unit’s music therapy session.

The team is now working towards Stage 2 which they hope to achieve by the end of the year.