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VIDEO: Join us on a tour of the Cygnet Wing
Learn about the work of midwives and how funds raised by the Duckling Appeal will improve maternity facilities
Donations have begun pouring in for the Bedford Hospitals Charity's Duckling Appeal, so the Times & Citizen took a tour of the Cygnet Wing to see where your money will be going.
Opened in 1996 by the Queen, Bedford Hospital's maternity unit oversees more than 3,000 births a year, which is why this newspaper wants to help the charity's dedicated campaigners raise 200,000 to refurbish this vital facility.
This week we were given a guided tour of the Cygnet Wing, to find out what alterations will be carried out when the fundraising target is met, and to learn about the midwives' work.
Jean O'Callaghan, chief executive of Bedford Hospital, said: "In the delivery room, in particular, we try to have as near to a normal environment as possible, but it's not ideal.
"This room does not have an en suite bathroom for example, it has a birthing pool and the charity has generously decided to support us in making this a state-of-the-art facility with new curtains new furnishings and a second birthing pool next door.
"On some occasions women cannot get access to this unit as, with only one birthing pool, when it's full, it's full, so by having the additional room it is offering women greater choice."
She added: "I think it provides an environment which is as near to home as possible, but with the security of delivery at hospital."
The current delivery room and birthing pool suite will be extended to incorporate the en suite shower room, and a disused office will be developed into the new delivery suite with a second birthing pool.
Ruth Steward, supervisor of midwives, who has been delivering babies for almost 30 years, said: "The birthing pool helps the labour progress and we find women need less pain relief if they use a birthing pool.
"The women find it a fulfilling experience and come back to use it again, which is why we are so excited about having the new development of another birthing pool."
To support the charity call 01234 404248 or email enquiries@bedhospcharity.org.uk
More on Bedford Hospitals Charity:
Duckling Appeal gets off to flying start
VIDEO: On the breakfast run with Jude Cottam
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Weather for Bedford
Thursday 09 February 2012
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