Neonatal intensive care unit achieves national recognition

Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s neonatal intensive care unit at St Peter’s Hospital has achieved Platinum Bliss Baby Charter accreditation, the highest level of recognition awarded by neonatal charity Bliss.

(c) Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

(c) Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

St Peter's is currently the only Level 3 neonatal unit in England to hold this prestigious accreditation, recognising its outstanding commitment to family-integrated care for premature and sick babies and their families.

Dr Benedicta Agbagwara-Osuji, director of midwifery, said: ‘Securing Platinum Bliss Baby Charter accreditation is a remarkable accomplishment, particularly for a Level 3 neonatal unit caring for some of the smallest and sickest babies. The rigorous assessment reflects the outstanding dedication of our neonatal team and their unwavering commitment to family-integrated care. We are incredibly proud to be the only Level 3 unit in the country to secure this standard, and this recognition belongs to every member of our team and every family whose experiences and feedback continue to shape and improve the care we provide.'

Highlighting the team's achievements, Bliss assessors praised the exceptional family-integrated care, including transformative feeding support, compassionate and culturally sensitive bereavement services, comprehensive psychological support, and practical initiatives such as on-site childcare that help families remain closely involved in their baby's care.

It also praised the unit's inclusive and welcoming environment, recognising family-focused facilities and refurbishment plans, accessible information, multilingual support, and a strong commitment to meeting the diverse needs of every family.

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