Staff at Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) recently celebrated Kangaroo Care Awareness Day by encouraging parents to hold their babies close with skin-to-skin contact, often called ‘kangaroo care.’ This simple act involves placing the baby chest to chest with a parent and has proven benefits for premature and unwell newborns.
Kangaroo care helps babies regulate their breathing, temperature, and heart rate. It also strengthens bonding between parent and child and supports brain development.
One family on the neonatal unit, whose twin daughters were born prematurely, shared their experience. Mark Perry from Ellesmere Port said, “It’s such a strange environment, and sometimes you can feel helpless — but having that physical contact is something we could do.”
Another parent, Catherine Hicks, also spoke about the benefits. “In a difficult environment, it helps develop that bond with your baby,” she said.
The event was organised by Amy Burgess, Neonatal Infant Feeding and Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) Co-ordinator, with her colleagues. Burgess said, “This wasn’t just about a moment of contact, it was about connection, and it is medicine. Kangaroo care improves medical and neurodevelopmental outcomes for babies and can reduce the length of hospital stay. It’s much more than just a cuddle.”
This year’s international campaign theme was ‘In my arms you thrive.’ To make families feel special, the team provided gift bags with helpful information and comforting treats. The hospital’s Women and Children’s reception area displayed quotes highlighting the powerful impact of kangaroo care. Staff were also given cupcakes as a thank you for their compassionate work.
Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive at WUTH, said, “Holding a baby skin-to-skin might seem like a small act, but it’s one of the most powerful things a parent can do. I’m proud of our neonatal staff who deliver not just medical care, but kindness, encouragement and warmth every single day.”
Related Topics:
