People who give birth at King’s Mill Hospital now have the opportunity for a partner or supporter to stay overnight to provide extra support.

Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which operates the Sutton hospital, said it had listened to feedback from new families about how their birthing experience could be improved.

A total of 47 recliners — one for every room and bay on the post-natal ward — have been provided thanks to equal funding from Sherwood Forest Hospitals Charity and Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS).

Consultant midwife Gemma Boyd said: “We recognise that having a partner or trusted supporter to stay can help with family bonding and reduce anxiety and stress.”

Holly Fishwick and her husband, Matthew, were delighted that he was able to stay overnight following the birth of their son, Cove.

Matthew, of Clipstone, said: “This made our lives a lot easier. I can’t imagine what it would have been like having to go home at night.

“The chair fully reclines into a flat bed and is really comfortable, meaning I was well rested.

“I could bond with Cove, change nappies, and do simple things to support Holly, like refill her water bottle.

“Without the extra support of having me here, I don’t think Holly would still be breastfeeding, which is something she really wanted to do.”

The trust worked in partnership with the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Maternity Voices Partnership (MVP) on the project, which was led by Tilly Paul, ward leader, and matron Lisa Foster.

Emma Lambert, MVP volunteer, joined the working group after her son was born at King’s Mill Hospital in 2018.

She said: “We live 45 minutes away so thankfully my husband was able to stay but he was incredibly uncomfortable in a regular chair and didn’t get much sleep. I think these new chairs and updated guidance will make a huge difference to lots of families.”