Students Create Emergency Baby Packs for New Mothers
June 4, 2026Leeds City College students assist new mums facing unexpected births
Health and Social Care students at Leeds City College’s Quarry Hill campus have been involved in a project providing emergency baby packs to mothers who were unaware of their pregnancy until late stages or labour. The initiative aims to supply essential items to support new mothers in these unexpected situations.
Background of the project
The emergency baby pack project was developed by Sarah Jones, a crew member with Yorkshire Ambulance Service. Drawing on her professional experiences, Sarah identified a need to assist mothers experiencing cryptic pregnancies—pregnancies that remain unrecognised by the individual until late in the term or labour. It is estimated that over 300 women in the UK experience cryptic pregnancies annually.
Contents and purpose of the baby packs
The packs contain basic necessities for newborns, including:
- Nappies
- Clothing
- Wipes
These items are intended to provide immediate support to mothers who may not have had the opportunity to prepare for their baby’s arrival.
Student involvement and perspectives
Students studying Level 3 Health and Social Care have been actively contributing to assembling the packs. Their participation offers practical experience relevant to their future careers. For example, Sasha Moyo, a student aiming to become a nurse practitioner, highlighted the importance of understanding unexpected situations in healthcare. Another student, Ashley Masendeke, who aspires to work as a social worker, expressed that the project offered a meaningful chance to help newborns and their families.
College commitment and ongoing support
Leeds City College has taken over the project, ensuring that students continue to assist in creating and distributing the emergency packs. The college has also been involved in fundraising efforts to provide these packs to hospitals across Yorkshire.
Sheila Lucciarini, Assistant Principal at Quarry Hill campus, noted that unexpected births can be traumatic for parents, who often lack basic supplies for their babies. The project seeks to offer practical support to both families and healthcare providers in such circumstances.
