April 2009

Survey of families with very low birth weight children in Scotland

Capability Scotland is carrying out a one year research project looking at children who were born with very low weight. They are working in partnership with a number of organisations in carrying out this research. The child must have been born in Scotland or now live in Scotland. They are looking to see what experiences families have had relating with different professionals dealing with the care of their child; how the interaction between different services has worked and what services and care areas are not being covered at present.

It is apparent that there is an increasing number of children in Scotland with a very low birth weight who have a significant disability. The total is increasing at about 2 per cent a year. Blissare also aware their families require different services at different stages, from Health, Social Work and Education departments. Theywant to help to identify any gaps in support and service delivers.

For further information and to download the survey visit the Bliss website here.

April 2009

Nominations open for the Bliss birthday awards

Bliss the special care baby charity is turning 30 in 2009. As part of their30th birthday celebrations they are holding a national awards ceremony, last held in 2006, to recognise and encourage the amazing work of those who care for and support premature and sick babies and their families. The Bliss Birthday Awards, in association with Cow and Gate Baby Balance Food will also be an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of families and Bliss supporters.

The nominations are open from 15 April 2009 to 30 June 2009 and theyare calling on families to tellthem about the person or people who helped them through the difficult time of having a premature or sick baby. Categories include; neonatal nurse, neonatal doctor, neonatal unit, special support (this could be a family member, friend, dietician, physiotherapist), family (this award recognises a family who has overcome significant challenges).

Bliss Chief Executive Andy Cole said "We are thrilled to be holding these awards in our 30th birthday year. It is a great opportunity not only to celebrate our birthday but also recognise the amazing work being done to help our most vulnerable babies and their families. So why not nominate a special person and honour their great work."

The Bliss birthday awards will take place on 18 November 2009 and this is your chance to thank the people who have helped you, so to make your nomination today, click here.