New video helps families prepare for postnatal stay
11 June 2026
Maternity staff at Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) have launched a new video to help families feel more informed about what to expect if they stay on the Postnatal Ward at the John Radcliffe Hospital’s Women's Centre.
The video introduces 'family bays' on Level 5, where partners can stay overnight to support new parents and spend those first important days together as a family.
Created with input from staff and families, the video aims to provide clear, reassuring information for women and their loved ones ahead of coming into hospital.
It showcases the facilities available and answers common questions about how the family bays work in practice.
The short film features staff and families sharing their experiences of the family bays, highlighting the difference being able to stay together overnight can make during what can be an emotional and vulnerable time.
The bays were introduced in response to feedback from patients and families, which showed strong interest in partners being able to remain overnight on the ward.
The video also provides an overview of the facilities available to support partners, including reclining chairs for overnight stays, as well as access to visitors' washing facilities and a refreshment area.
Bronwen Eadie, Matron for Inpatients, Bereavement and The Spires at OUH, said: "By bringing together practical information and real-life experiences, this video is designed to help families feel more prepared, informed and reassured ahead of their postnatal stay."
Milica Redfearn, Director of Midwifery at OUH, said: "This change has been made in direct response to feedback from women and families, as part of our ongoing commitment to listen, learn and improve. We know how important it is for families to be together in those first few days after birth."
If you would like to tell us about your experiences of OUH Maternity Services, including what’s gone well or what could be improved, please do get in touch via maternityfeedback@ouh.nhs.uk.
Video: Maternity family spaces at the John Radcliffe Hospital
