A PRIVATE space for grieving families who have experienced baby loss has had a makeover at Basildon Hospital.

The Forget Me Not suite has had an updated bedroom, new shower room and family kitchen, and is designed to make it a more comfortable and tranquil space for those families that are spending precious moments with their baby.

The safe and private haven offers a grieving family a separate and comfortable space to spend time with their baby.

Debbie Olajugbagbe, bereavement specialist midwife, said: "It's a vitally important space; we've tried to create that home-from-home environment for families impacted by the death of their baby. Each and every item in the suite has been chosen with feedback from families who have used the suite in the past. Time spent in these rooms will stay with them forever.

"None of it would have been made a reality without local families who have given time and donations to make this possible. It is so kind that, after they have been through such a difficult time themselves, they have offered such support to other families who are also experiencing such a devastating loss.

"We've also had great support from B&M Home Stores and the Forget Me Not Support Group in making this revamped room a reality. It is already making such a difference."

Families who use the suite are also supported by the Basildon maternity unit's Lullaby Team, a team of three bereavement specialist midwives, which includes Debbie as well as her colleagues Beth Towsey and Sian Ness, who provide care to families affected by the loss of a child.

Debbie added: "Our aim is that every family who has experienced the death of their baby feels surrounded by comfort, kindness, compassion and support throughout their journey."