15/08/2026
When Rachel first joined the neonatal unit as a newly qualified nurse in 2011, it didn't take long for her to recognise the importance of the work happening there.
"Babies who arrive on the unit for various reasons require specialist knowledge, care and support from the whole team," she says. "With the right intervention, many babies survive and thrive where they may not have without it."
Fifteen years later, on International Neonatal Nurses Day, Rachel is still supporting babies and families, now as a Neonatal Outreach Sister, helping parents navigate the transition from hospital to home.
For Rachel, one of the most meaningful parts of the role is being there for families during a time they never expected to face.
"Many parents arrive on the unit worried for the future, finding themselves on an unexpected and sometimes scary journey," she explains. "Being part of supporting them through this challenging time is something that I feel privileged to do."
That support doesn't end when a baby leaves the neonatal unit. Rachel sees first-hand how important it is for families to have continued care, reassurance and somewhere to turn once they're home.
It's one of the reasons she's such a passionate advocate for Spoons.
"The support they give to families is invaluable," she says. "From the welcome packs available to every family on NICU, the peer support available from Spoons volunteers, all the way through to support in the community post discharge."
When reflecting on the nurses she works alongside, Rachel's admiration is clear.
"The compassion, empathy and care shown by nurses to their babies and families is evident in the high-quality service provided. This is something that shines through, even on the challenging days."
Perhaps the most important message comes from the families themselves. Rachel says:
"Whilst parents experiences of the unit as an environment in a challenging time vary, their appreciation for the nurses and wider team is loud and clear."
To Rachel, and to every neonatal nurse, thank you for the care, compassion and expertise you bring to babies and families every single day. The difference you make doesn't end at the hospital doors. It stays with families long after they go home. 💙
