Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals Charity (WHH Charity) is raising £200,000 to create the Willow Tree Hub – a dedicated space offering comfort, privacy and specialist support for families facing the heartbreaking loss of a baby.

Why the Willow Tree Hub matters

Each family’s pregnancy journey is unique, but for those experiencing baby loss or recovering from a traumatic birth it can be overwhelming, particularly in a busy hospital setting.

Families may be told devastating news in rooms where they can hear women in labour and babies’ newborn cries. Returning for follow-up care can also be extremely distressing and a reminder of their past experience.

The Willow Tree Hub will provide a calm, private space away where families can grieve, reflect and receive the help and guidance they need in a compassionate and supportive setting.

Specialist support for families

The hub will also be home to a specialist Rainbow Clinic, offering extra care for families navigating a pregnancy after loss. Parents who have previously experienced stillbirth or neonatal loss often face heightened anxiety and fear. The Rainbow Clinic will provide specialist monitoring and emotional support, helping families feel reassured and cared for every step of the way.

A thoughtfully designed space

The Willow Tree Hub, to be constructed in the grounds of Warrington Hospital just outside the Maternity Department, has been designed to create a welcoming and tranquil environment:

  • Inside – a comfortable and peaceful space for bereavement counselling and support sessions.
  • Outside – a serene garden with wildflowers, solar lighting and seating, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.

The name Willow Tree symbolises resilience, mourning, and the enduring strength of love and family during life’s most difficult moments.

How you can help

This project relies on the generosity of our community. Every donation, big or small, will go directly towards creating this space for those families needing support.

By donating, fundraising or spreading the word, you can help us make a real difference.

Visit our JustGiving page to make a donation or get involved in fundraising activities. For more information contact our Fundraising Team on 01925 662666 or email whh.charity@nhs.net.