"Knowing I can go somewhere to get help with someone who understands what I've been through is a weight lifted off my shoulders."
Our Neonatal Support Group meets every other Wednesday at West Middlesbrough Family Hub, from 10–11:30am. Commissioned by BBC Children In Need, the group is open to any family with a baby aged 0–3 who has spent time in a neonatal unit.
Why Our Community Group Matters
This group is a blend of two things families often tell us they need most:
- Lived experience peer support – space to connect with other parents and caregivers who truly understand the neonatal journey.
- Developmental guidance for babies – gentle, expert-led activities that support your child’s growth and confidence.
Each session is thoughtfully themed, creating a safe and welcoming space to share stories, reflect on your experiences, and celebrate your child’s unique journey.
What support may look like
- Supporting you reading infant cues and baby communication
- Tummy time and physical development
- Providing sensory play and early learning activities
We want you to leave each session with both emotional support and simple tools you can use at home to keep supporting your baby’s development in everyday life.
Some of our most loved sessions include Bath Babies, Tummy Time Play, and our very special NICU Graduation Party, where families come together to celebrate just how far their little ones have come.
No matter where you are on your journey, you’ll find warmth, understanding, and a community ready to walk alongside you.
How we support
We meet you where you are – over the phone, virtually, or in person. However you feel most comfortable, that’s how we’ll connect.
Emotional Support
A place of safety and no judgement from people who have been in the NICU too
Practical Support & Advocacy
We can liaise with housing, employment, and education services, bridging gaps when extra support is needed.
Working Together with Professionals
We regularly communicate with healthcare teams, GPs, and consultants to ensure joined-up support, while always respecting confidentiality.
There’s no time limit on our support. The NICU journey doesn’t end at discharge, and neither does our care for you. We will hold this space with you, for as long as you need.
49%
of parents reported feeling isolated following neonatal care (Smallest Things)
77%
of parents reported that they have experienced anxiety following discharge from neonatal care (Smallest Things)
32%
of parents did not feel they had a good understanding of the developmental and/or learning needs a child born prematurely may have (Smallest Things)
Being Present in the Community
We’re currently on a mission to promote our services region-wide so we can reach as many neonatal families as possible, if you work in a profession that offers support in any capacity to families who have spent time on the NICU, get in touch.
