Bell ringing is a boost for babies going home
A new end of treatment bell has been added to Southend Hospital’s Neonatal unit to mark an important milestone – the day a baby is finally ready to go home.
Staff gathered with the Thomas family, from Rayleigh, who have been on the unit for several weeks and were the first to ring the bell, which saw photos and videos taken and smiles aplenty.
Mum, Michelle, said: “After a long stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit ringing the ‘going home bell’ was a lovely memory and achievement to end our journey on.”
The idea came about after staff saw a similar bell on Facebook. After contacting the charity behind it, they were gifted the bell at no cost. The bell is paired with a short poem, read aloud before it is rung.
Jennifer Foster, Neonatal Ward Manager, said: “Every family’s journey is a tough one, but ringing this bell is a great way for them to celebrate the end of their stay with us. It’s a small touch, but one that means a lot to them and us as staff who have helped get them to this moment.”