Plans for hospital space for parents of ill babies

The NHS says the complex would "keep families together" by allowing parents of ill children to stay on site

A new development at Bradford Royal Infirmary would create a "home from home" for families of babies in intensive care, according to the NHS.

A planning application revealed proposals for a new accommodation block at the hospital's neonatal facility that will allow families "to stay close to their babies during an incredibly challenging time".

The development is expected to cost £3m, with the Bradford Hospitals Charity working with The Sick Children's Trust to raise the required funds for the work.

Once completed, the facility would be run by the Sick Children's Trust charity and would double the amount of neonatal unit beds in the hospital.

If plans are approved by Bradford Council, the facility would be built on vacant space at the Smith Lane side of the hospital next to the maternity unit.

Explaining the need for the accommodation, the application reads: "The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit provides expert clinical care to babies born at the extreme limits of gestational age and those born critically unwell.

"On average the unit admits around 500 babies per year."

The building would include five en-suite rooms for relatives, a family room, dining area and a laundry facility.

Plans for outside include a terrace with seating and an informal play space.

Changes to the existing neonatal unit would include a new rooming-in bedroom and end of life room, a consultation room, a prayer room and en-suite toilet.

A spokesperson for Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said: "This much-needed facility will help keep families together by providing them with a comfortable and supportive space to stay close to their babies during an incredibly challenging time."

A decision on the application was expected in October, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.