Harrogate Hospital first in UK to receive Gold award for special baby care

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The initiative, set up by UNICEF and the World Health Organisation, is a global programme which provides a practical and effective way for health services to improve the care provided for mothers and babies.

It is based on a comprehensive set of standards designed to provide parents with the best possible care to build close and loving relationships with their baby, and to feed their baby in ways which will support optimum health and development.

Staff at the hospital said they were delighted to receive the award and be recognised for their exceptional care.

Sue Ashmore, the national Baby Friendly Initiative Programme Director, presented the award at a ceremony at the hospital, which included staff and parents.

She praised everyone involved for being so dedicated and called the unit one of her favourites, saying: "If anybody deserved to be the first Gold in the UK, it's Harrogate.

"Harrogate is one of the best units we have and it is one I always use as an example. There is just such a culture of kindness."

Jo Orgles, the Infant Feed Coordinator who is in charge of implementing the standards at the hospital, said: "Our parents in Harrogate are looked after in the best way possible and we are making a really big difference.

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"It's a big team effort and we are so proud. We support people through such a traumatic time and being recognised for our care is just lovely."