17th November 2025
To mark World Prematurity Day (17 November), Craigavon Area Hospital Neonatal Unit is shining a light on the vital role siblings play in supporting parents and babies during neonatal care.
The Southern Health and Social Care Trust continues to strengthen its family-centred approach, ensuring families feel welcomed, reassured and involved from the earliest moments of their baby’s journey.
To mark the day, the unit has also released a short video capturing the experiences of local families and staff, showcasing the positive impact of sibling involvement and the Trust’s commitment to compassionate, inclusive care.
Colm Darby, Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, said:
“For many parents, having a baby in the neonatal unit can be overwhelming and lonely.
“We want families to know they are not alone. Siblings bring comfort, familiarity and connection, not only for the baby but for parents too. Their involvement helps make the unit feel more like a family space, which is exactly what we strive for.”
Una Toland, Ward Manager of the Neonatal Unit, said:
“Every year, approximately 300 babies are admitted to the unit and cared for by our excellent staff.
“Our teams have worked proactively to expand opportunities for families to stay close and connected, including providing clear, practical guidance so parents feel confident involving brothers and sisters in neonatal care; supporting safe sibling visits that encourage early bonding and help maintain family routines; enhancing family-friendly spaces to allow parents to spend time with all their children; and offering strengthened emotional and practical support to ensure families feel heard, informed and supported throughout their neonatal journey.”
Colm McCafferty, Director of Children and Young People and Women’s Services, said:
“As a Trust, we are committed to delivering care that is compassionate, inclusive and centred on what matters to people. Supporting sibling involvement and strengthening family connections directly aligns with our Vision and Strategy 2030, which places families, partnership and person-centred care at the heart of everything we do.
“The work of our neonatal team demonstrates how these values translate into real, meaningful support for families at some of the most challenging moments of their lives.”
Shannon Holland(Staff Nurse), mum of twins in unit,, Ann Brogan (Ward Manager) and Tracey Elmore (Deputy Sister).