New artwork brings colour and comfort to families visiting Neonatal Unit

Families and staff have welcomed the installation of a new nature-themed artwork along the corridor leading to the Neonatal Unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

Funded by the charity SSNAP (Support for the Sick Newborn and their Parents), the project has transformed the previously worn walkway that links the 'Women’s Centre Maternity' entrance to the unit, also known as the Oxford Newborn Care Unit.

The refreshed space aims to create a more welcoming and reassuring environment for families on their way to see their babies.

The vinyl features a meadow‑like scene with acorns, blossom and daffodils running along the corridor walls. Purple butterflies appear throughout as a gentle tribute to babies from pregnancies with more than one baby who were sadly unable to survive, offering a symbol of remembrance that many families find comforting.

A 'graduation wall' has also been installed, providing a place for families to take a photo before going home, capturing details such as their baby's birth date, gestation and weight.

One parent said: "Walking through the doors of the Neonatal Unit can be very overwhelming, but the artwork helped me focus on something more positive. For me, it has a very special meaning as my son passed away and he was a twin. The purple butterfly immediately made me think of him – it makes me feel like he is with me as I visit his twin brother.

"It is a small detail, but it brings comfort during a difficult time. I really appreciate that something so thoughtful has been included in the space for families like ours."

Another said: “I’ve not been home for weeks while my baby has been in neonatal care. I really miss the sunshine, and the artwork that brings the outside in is lovely – it reminds me that the world is still out there.”

A third parent said: “It looks beautiful and makes the corridor so uplifting. It may seem like a small thing, but for parents like me who walk down the corridor every day and spend most of the day inside the unit, it is a lovely way to brighten your day and give you a small boost of positivity.”

Emily Byrne, Charity Lead for SSNAP, said: "SSNAP is thrilled to be able to enhance the corridors leading to the Neonatal Unit and create a space that feels brighter, calmer and more welcoming. The transformation has made a real difference already, providing an uplifting environment for both families and staff.

"We are incredibly grateful that this work has been made possible through a generous legacy from a late donor. Their gift will help bring comfort and hope to parents walking this corridor for years to come."

Clare Morris, Deputy Matron for the Neonatal Unit at OUH, said: "The new corridor artwork has made a hugely positive difference to our Neonatal Unit, transforming what was once a plain corridor into one that feels bright, welcoming and calming.

"For families spending long and often emotional periods with us, it offers moments of comfort, while for staff it creates a more uplifting environment on their way to and from work. We are incredibly grateful to SSNAP and those involved in supporting this project for improving this space."

Dave Mullord, Business Development Manager at Artisan, which installed the vinyl, said: "We are incredibly proud to partner with SSNAP to bring these corridors to life. Combining bespoke designed graphics with expert print and installation, we’ve created a vibrant, welcoming space that we are thrilled to share with everyone."