THE first neonatal bereavement study day hosted by Warrington Hospital has been deemed a success as 40 delegates attended from across the region.

Consultants, neonatal nurses, nurses, student midwives and health care assistants from Warrington, Bangor, Chester, St Helens, Knowsley and Ormskirk spoke to charities who support families who have lost a baby and discussed sensitive photography and parents’ stories.

Debbie Yates, clinical educator and organiser of the day, said: “Bereavement is still very much a taboo subject but it is vital that as professionals we care for families appropriately with respect, compassion and dignity.

“It has to be right so education of staff is important to develop an understanding of different roles people play.

“It is important to improving the care we deliver by listening to parent experiences and working collaboratively with charitable organisations to support parents and staff through such a difficult time.”

Sponsorship from Harry & Co, Life after Loss and Knox & Son Ltd made the event possible with requests for it to be repeated as an annual event.