New playpark strengthens support for families at Kingfisher Mother and Baby Unit

A mum and her children smiling in the new playground

A new playpark for mothers and babies being supported by Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) at Hellesdon Hospital has officially opened.

The new sensory playpark, at the Kingfisher Mother and Baby Unit, has cost £60,000 and has been jointly funded by NSFT and Norfolk County Council, which awarded a £30,000 grant from the Government’s Best Start Family Hub fund.

The play area will provide a welcoming space for mothers to spend time with their children whilst supporting their recovery and improving attachment.

Its location will help link families with further support and resources at the nearby Best Start Family Hub, based at Hellesdon Community centre, which is a 10-minute walk from the hospital.Families can find support through Norfolk’s Family Hubs, including information on available services and how to access help online, in the community and at local hubs across Norfolk.

Cath Byford, Chief Patient Experience Officer and Deputy Chief Executive of Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted that the playpark has now welcomed its first families. It will provide a calm, supportive space for mothers, their babies and their support network, at a time they need it most.

“I am grateful to Norfolk County Council’s Best Start in Life Team for funding the project and their support to help make a meaningful difference to mothers in our care. “

Cllr Wendy Atkinson, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and SEND, said: “This play park will provide a safe and welcoming space where mums can spend quality time with their babies during their recovery. It will help strengthen parent-baby relationships, support children’s early development and create opportunities for families to connect with wider support through the nearby Best Start Family Hub at the Hellesdon Community Centre.

“At Norfolk County Council, we want every child to have the best possible start in life. By investing in spaces like this and working closely with our partners, we can support families when they need it most and help ensure every child can flourish.”