We provide a range of transition services to support parents moving home with their baby. Babies may have been on the Unit for some time and parents may need to adjust to the role of full time carer, particularly if the baby has additional needs. All new parents need to learn how to change a nappy. Not all new parents need to learn how to change a nappy and a colostomy bag; if they do, Transition Services are there to help.

Ward 76

Ward 76 reception

Community Services

Before returning home, parents are invited to a meeting to discuss which services they may need when their baby leaves hospital. We will then arrange referrals to other medical services. On leaving NICU, the baby's care will be transferred to the community neonatal team and a Paediatrician who will see the parents and baby soon after they return home. We explain all the services available and parents have plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

Family Support

Parents often have mixed feelings about returning home. On one hand, they are excited about returning home but on the other they can be concerned about the responsibility of looking after a tiny baby on their own, particularly if the baby has been in NICU for some time or has ongoing medical issues.

The Family Support Worker on the Unit is available to listen to parents concerns and can help ensure that such help they need is provided.