The Bereavement Suite at Royal Albert Edward Infirmary (RAEI) in Wigan has undergone a major transformation thanks to years of dedicated generous fundraising and community support, resulting in a sanctuary for families experiencing baby loss.
Designed directly around patient feedback, the refurbished space has been carefully crafted to feel tranquil, comfortable and homely - offering a serene haven away from a clinical hospital setting.
Originally named the Pearl Suite in memory of twin daughters Peggy and Pearl following fundraising efforts by their parents Chris and Louise Hopwood in 2014, the space was improved again in 2019 thanks to fundraising from Rebecca and Tom Outterside after the loss of their twin baby girls, Georgina Elizabeth and Harriette Rose. Building on this foundation, Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust's (WWL) Three Wishes Charity launched the Bereavement Suite Appeal in 2025, which has raised more than £35,000 alongside additional hospital capital funding to completely revitalise the facilities.
Kev Parker-Evans, Chief Nursing Officer, said: "At WWL, we are committed to always improving the patient experience, especially during the most heartbreaking times a family can face. Listening directly to real patient feedback was central to this project, allowing us to create a suite that reflects our commitment to providing compassionate, dignified, and high-quality care, ensuring that families have a private, soothing environment when they need it most."
The latest funds were raised by bereaved parents and through various community initiatives, including staff and patients taking part in the Wigan 10K, Three Peaks and various raffles and events.
Caroline and Christopher Wallace turned their grief into fundraising action after losing baby Charlie in 2024. Caroline said:
"I felt a real need to fundraise to turn such a devastating negative into a positive. As I shared our story, I was astounded by how many other people have gone through baby loss. Seeing what our collective fundraising has achieved shows that we have made a difference for future families."
Claire Mayers and Paul Marsden wanted to do the same and asked for donations instead of flowers at their son’s funeral. She said: "I dedicated my donations in loving memory of my baby, Max, which included a generous £10,000 from DBD international, the company I work for. Being able to direct my grief into something meaningful has helped honour Max’s memory and knowing that this money has created such a tranquil space providing comfort to other families brings me comfort."
Phil Meadowcroft, who used the facility alongside his wife Zoe when they lost their daughter Delilah, is still fundraising and has already completed the National Three Peaks Challenge earlier this year in memory of Delilah, who they lost in November 2025. He said:
"Having a comforting environment to reflect, remember, and heal can make a huge difference. Having the use of Pearl Suite allowed my family and I to spend precious time with Delilah and make memories that we will cherish forever, such as seeing the sky and trees from the bedside, in peaceful surroundings. I’m proud to play a part in creating a space where families can find dignity and care when they need it most.
"Baby loss is often such a taboo subject, especially among men. I really want to encourage other fathers and men to open up - it's so important to talk, and there is genuine support out there when you need it."
