When babies are in hospital it can be difficult for parents/carers to do the everyday things, they would normally do at home. This may be because baby has had an operation, is unwell, or is attached to wires and different sorts of equipment.

Although baby may require medical and nursing care, parents/carers have a very important role to play. Parents/carers learn what support their baby needs to enable them to feel safe and secure, despite the medical challenges they may be facing.

The aim of the CUDDLE Project is to support parents/ carers to feel as close to their baby as possible whilst they are in hospital.

All babies are unique and the Cuddle team work alongside parents/carer to establish the support they feel is most appropriate for them to feel close to their babies.

Providing a healing environment for babies when they are in hospital, is very important for baby to support their recovery and their future development. Supporting parents/carers to be close to their baby has both short and long term benefits both for babies and their family.

The CUDDLE Team is led by the therapy team and includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses and the play team.

Our very own Koala CUDDLE logo was designed by healthcare assistant Hannah Littler.

Cardiac
Unit
Delivering
Developmental
Learning
Experiences

Resources: Click on the links below to watch our ‘how to’ videos and read our CUDDLE resources

How to make a nest.

How to do a side lying nappy change.

Skin to Skin care.

How to do wrapped weighing.

Cuddle leaflet for parents

Nursery poster with QR codes.

Skin-to-skin care parent leaflet latest version

The CUDDLE Team

Therapy team:-

Rachel McConnell – Physiotherapist (project lead)

Catherine Forster – Occupational Therapist

Hannah Fairlamb – Physiotherapist

PICU/ Ward 23 CUDDLE Team

For further information please contact Rachel McConnell on r.mcconnel@nhs.net