This Sibling Day, 2025, we were proud to host special events at Barnstaple SCBU and Exeter NNU to celebrate and support the often-overlooked heroes in neonatal care journeys – the siblings.
Having a baby in the neonatal unit is a huge adjustment for the whole family, and for siblings, it can be a confusing and emotional time. Their little brother or sister might look very different, be surrounded by medical equipment, or be too fragile to hold or touch. At the same time, their parents’ attention is naturally focused on the needs of their baby in hospital. It’s a delicate balancing act for families – one filled with love, worry, and hope.
To mark Sibling Day, we created a welcoming space in both units where families could gather, talk, and simply enjoy a few special moments together. We handed out our brand new Sibling Packs – small but thoughtful kits designed to help children feel included, supported, and connected to their new baby brother or sister.
These packs are filled with age-appropriate resources and fun activities that encourage bonding, understanding, and creativity. From colouring sheets and storybooks to small cuddly toys and information for parents, the packs aim to gently support siblings as they process their experiences and emotions.
We know how important it is to help siblings feel seen and valued during what can be a challenging time. That’s why these Sibling Packs are now available year-round in both Barnstaple SCBU and Exeter NNU for any family who would like to take one home.
Supporting siblings helps support the whole family – and we’re so pleased to take another step forward in making the neonatal journey a little gentler for everyone.
With a special thank you to our volunteer Sam for taking charge of this event and to all the hospital staff
