STEPPING HILL WINS COALITION CASH TO HELP NEW MUMS AND DADS

Stepping Hill Hospital have successfully bid for almost half a million pounds to refurbish their maternity services. Local MP Mark Hunter has welcomed the Coalition Government grant as "great news for local families".

Changes put into place with the £451,000 will improve the "personal experience" new mothers and fathers have in the Hospital's 1960s concrete tower block. The refurb will make the environment more attractive through the physical improvement of the antenatal and postnatal care environment.

The scheme will include the provision of modern bathroom facilities, some of them ensuite, with provision for partners to stay overnight to offer support where this is appropriate.

It will also include provision of an induction room and a bereavement room to support the vulnerable family group as they deal with their loss. The proposals also include the provision of new furniture in order to offer a warmer, less clinical environment.

Commenting, Mark said:

"As a Lib Dem in the Coalition Government I'm delighted that we have awarded one of our local Hospitals almost half a million pounds to make sure new Mums and Dads feel at home with their newborn babies.

"This is great news for local families - it is absolutely essential to have top-notch local maternity services and the improvements will help Stepping Hill Hospital build on their already strong track record."