Understanding unit transfers

As your baby’s condition changes, they may be transferred to another unit depending on their medical need. This may also include being transferred to other units within our neonatal network. Occasionally, it may be necessary to move your baby outside of our network. We will aim to get your baby closer to home as soon as possible. 

There are a few reasons why your baby may be transferred. A health professional should explain why your baby is being moved. We understand that you may have some worries – please discuss these with the team so we can help to prepare and support you. You can also access support from our unit psychologist. 

Please read our Moving your newborn baby to another hospital (CenTre Neonatal Transport) guide. You can also take a tour of a CenTre neonatal transport ambulance.

The neonatal unit at the Leicester Royal Infirmary is a Level 3 surgical and cardiac specialist unit, caring for babies born from 22 weeks gestation.  

The neonatal unit at the Leicester General Hospital is a Level 1 unit. 

East Midlands Neonatal units https://www.emnodn.nhs.uk/our-units-1  

There are a few reasons why your baby may be transferred. A health professional should explain why your baby is being moved. 

If your baby requires specialist care, equipment or surgery that is provided at a different hospital. 

If your baby’s health is improving and they no longer need higher levels of care.  

Read more here.

It may be possible, if you are well enough, for one parent to travel with your baby in the ambulance. The transport team will talk to you about this, but please ask them if they don’t mention it. You must be fit and well and discharged from postnatal care. You should also be able to get in and out of the ambulance by yourself.  

If you suffer from motion sickness it may be advisable for you not to travel in the ambulance. If you do travel with your baby you will be expected to stay in your seat with your seat belt fastened unless told otherwise by a member of our team. 

If you are not able to travel with your baby please do not try to follow at the speed of our ambulance – please travel at a safe and steady speed.  

Our team will give you information about the hospital your baby is being taken to.

You can take a tour of a CenTre neonatal transport ambulance.