No parent expects their child’s first moments to be spent in an incubator, surrounded by machines and medical teams. But for many families, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) becomes a vital part of their story, offering not just care, but hope and connection during an incredibly challenging time.
At Shenton Group, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting causes that have a meaningful impact. That’s why, this quarter, we’re proud to support Ickle Pickles, a charity that provides life-saving equipment and support to neonatal units across the UK.
For one of our own team members, this support became deeply personal.
Kirsty’s Story: Finding Support When It Was Needed Most
In November 2023, our CHP Coordinator, Kirsty, welcomed her son, Beauden-Bleu, into the world six weeks early. His early arrival meant an unexpected stay in the NICU at Winchester Hospital, a time filled with uncertainty, new routines, and many emotions.
During those early days, Ickle Pickles played a crucial role in making the experience just a little easier.
“Ickle Pickles means so much to me,” Kirsty explains. “When Beauden-Bleu was born prematurely, we didn’t know what to expect. But the support we received helped us through a really difficult time. It made all the difference.”
From practical resources to emotional support, Ickle Pickles contributed to many moments that brought comfort:
- Thoughtful touches, like hand-knitted hats and blankets, made the environment feel warmer and more personal. One particularly meaningful moment came when a nurse chose a tartan blanket for Beauden-Bleu, honouring Kirsty’s Scottish heritage.
- A dedicated family space, equipped with sofas, books, toys, and a kitchen, gave parents like Kirsty a chance to take a break and gather their strength.
- Ongoing connection through monthly coffee mornings and an online community helped Kirsty stay supported even after bringing Beauden-Bleu home.
Giving Back Through Our Charity of the Quarter
Each quarter, Shenton Group supports a different charity nominated by our team. This approach helps us give back in a meaningful way, and when one of our colleagues has a personal connection to a cause, it becomes even more impactful.
To support Ickle Pickles, our team has taken part in a number of fundraising activities, including:
- Pancake Day – where staff donated for a sweet treat, with all proceeds going to the charity.
- Dress-Down Fridays – a small but consistent way our team contributes weekly, swapping uniforms for casual wear and donating £1 each time.
These lighthearted efforts may seem small individually, but together, help fund critical equipment for neonatal units like the one that cared for Beauden-Bleu. But more than that, they raise awareness of a journey many families don’t expect to take, until they do.
How You Can Get Involved
If Kirsty’s story resonated with you, here are a few ways to support Ickle Pickles and families in neonatal care:
- Make a donation to help fund essential neonatal equipment.
- Take part in a fundraiser, or host your own!
- Volunteer your skills, whether that’s knitting hats or helping at local events.
To learn more or get involved, visit: icklepickles.org/hospital/winchester-hospital
A Shared Commitment
At Shenton Group, our culture of giving back is shaped by the people who make up our team. Kirsty’s experience is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do, because behind every charity we support, real lives are being touched.
We’re proud to stand with Ickle Pickles and all the families they support. Together, we can help give the tiniest fighters the strongest possible start.