The Special Care Baby Unit at York Hospital is a level two unit offering two intensive care cots and thirteen special care cots (two with high dependency status). The unit admits approximately 375 babies per year.

Care is provided by a consultant directed team of expert medical and nursing specialists trained in this field of medicine. Other supporting members of the team include physiotherapists, technicians from the x-ray, hearing an eye departments, pharmacists, a patient affairs officer, medical social workers, the hospital chaplain and the Special Care support group members.

Surgery is not performed in this hospital on babies. If this is required it will be undertaken at one of the local regional units by a paediatric surgeon.

We have two dedicated neonatal outreach nurses to visit babies and families at home after discharge providing medical advice as well as emotional support.

We have parental accommodation on site and a very active and well resourced parents support group and fundraising team.

The unit scores persistently well on parental feedback surveys in all areas and is noted to be particularly friendly and relaxed.

How to find us

The entrance to the Special Care Baby Unit is via the maternity unit entrance which is situated behind the main hospital. It is reached by turning off Wigginton Road a little further along from the main entrance as you come from the city centre. There is no access from the main hospital unless you are visiting via the maternity wards.

Our philosophy

Our philosophy is to maintain a safe environment, and one which encourages the highest standard of skilled, compassionate care for your baby. An environment which encourages the relationship between parents and their baby and promotion of the family unit.

Visiting

Parents are always welcome on the unit, day or night, their contact is vital to the well-being of the baby. Open visiting is also available for siblings. Each day between 1pm and 2pm has been designated a 'quiet period' when the lights are dimmed and noise and activity in the area near the babies are kept to a minimum, with the exception where very ill babies need continuous care and attention. 

On the unit there are a selection of toys and booklets to entertain your older children when they visit. We do request, please, that your children are supervised/controlled at all times whilst visiting the unit.

For your comfort it is advisable for you and your family to wear loose and comfortable clothing as the unit is a very warm environment.

Meet the team