Hospital buddy scheme to help new mums

NEW MUMS can benefit from extra help in hospital thanks to the launch of a novel maternity unit ‘buddy’ scheme.

The Mum Plus One initiative has been introduced at Nuneaton’s George Eliot Hospital, a popular birthing choice for Hinckley women.

Recognising the time after the birth is both exciting and intense, the trust is allowing the mother’s partner or relative to stay with them overnight on Dratyon Ward.

It means the new mum benefits from an extra pair of hands and also receives valuable emotional support.

New dad Tom Saunders was one of the first people to experience the initiative when partner Rosie Costello had their son Hayden.

He said: “I stayed over for a couple of nights and it was great to be able to help Rosie during her stay at the hospital. It was also good to assist with hands-on baby duties, including nappy changing, from the start.”

Drayton Ward manager, Sharon Gouldingay said it helped build bonds between the new family, adding: “Partners often feel excluded in the first few days while their partner and baby are in hospital. It also has psychological benefits - partners staying can be great emotional support.

The team on the ward are on hand to offer assistance to guests should it be needed. A Mum Plus One information guide can be found on the hospital’s website.