York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity launches Tiny Lives Appeal to support York Hospital’s Neonatal Unit
York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity is calling on the community to get involved and support their new Tiny Lives Appeal, which aims to raise £100,000 for the Neonatal Unit at York Hospital.
Launching today, Monday 10 November 2025, the appeal invites local people, businesses, and community groups to help make a difference for babies and families who need specialist neonatal care.
Funds raised will provide additional equipment and furnishings as part of a £2 million refurbishment of the unit - creating a state-of-the-art space for babies and better facilities for families during what can be an incredibly difficult and emotional time.
The Neonatal Unit, previously known as the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), provides care for families across York and Scarborough. The £2 million refurbishment is now underway, with the new unit set to open in Spring 2026.
The transformation will create an environment for babies to become stronger and healthier, while also offering improved facilities to support parents during their time in hospital.
By getting involved in the Tiny Lives Appeal, supporters will help fund items that make the environment calmer, more comfortable, and family-friendly - helping parents feel close to their babies and supporting their wellbeing while receiving expert care from the dedicated neonatal team.
With your help, the appeal will fund:
- Reclining chairs so parents can stay close to their baby, day and night
- Twin cots so twins can be together from the start, supporting bonding and emotional wellbeing
- Height-adjustable cots to support mothers recovering from C-sections
- Comfortable furniture to help families relax and feel at home
- Therapeutic skylights to soften the clinical environment and bring a sense of calm
Emma Sargent, Fundraising Manager at York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity, explained: “Our Neonatal Unit already provides exceptional care for some of our tiniest and most vulnerable patients. Through the Tiny Lives Appeal, we want to make sure the environment matches the compassion and dedication of the staff - creating a space that comforts families and helps them stay close to their babies when it matters most. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference to local families across our community.”
Katie Mortimer, Matron on the Neonatal Unit at York Hospital, added: “We care for babies who need specialist support and for families going through an incredibly emotional time. These improvements will make such a difference - creating a calmer, more welcoming environment that helps parents feel closer to their babies and part of their care from the very start.”
The appeal will enhance the vital clinical care already delivered on the unit, creating an environment that supports families emotionally and physically - helping parents feel more connected and confident during their hospital stay.
To make a donation or find out more about how to support the Tiny Lives Appeal, visit www.yshospitalscharity.org/tinyliv es