Located at the John Radcliffe Hospital, SSNAP (Support for Sick Newborn and their Parents) has been providing support to parents with premature and sick babies since 1982. Initially formed by a group of parents who wanted to help people in the same situation as they had found themselves, SSNAP has continued to put family support at the centre of all the work that they do.
The Level 3 Newborn Care Unit can provide care for up to 56 babies at any one time. This ensures that the most sick and premature babies from across the Thames Valley and sometimes further afield, can be looked after in this specialist unit in Oxford. When a newborn baby requires specialist, often lifesaving critical medical care at birth, this can be a traumatic and emotional time for both parents and families. However, thanks to the money SSNAP raises each year with the help of volunteers and donors, they can help parents, provide funding for specialist support and medical equipment, as well as funding life changing research.
A staff team of just three amazing people are on hand seven days a week to offer emotional and practical support to parents. Parents whose babies are on the NCU are always welcome to pop into SSNAP’s office and say hello to the team.
The charity needs people to support them however so that they can also continue to fund all aspects of the important work they do which includes funding transport and accommodation as some of the babies in the NCU come from far afield. Part of the money the charity raises is used to fund new and innovative medical equipment as well as essential items such as breast pumps and reclining chairs for improved kangaroo care. Since 1982, they have funded hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of vital equipment for the NCU at the John Radcliffe. However, they could not do this without the continued support of their volunteers and fundraisers.
For parents, whose premature child has spent time in the neonatal unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital, you can get involved in Little Ssnaplings, a parent and baby/toddler group for families. You can enjoy being part of a free 2 hour group whilst participating in a baby massage, baby yoga and Ride on Time for the toddler group, followed by light refreshments. Classes are held in Wantage at The Beacon on the first Wednesday of each month from 10.00 am until noon, for 18 months+. For further information please contact Tash@ssnap.org.uk. Further information is available on Facebook Little Ssnaplings.
If you would like to get involved in one of their fundraising activities this year, amongst the events you can choose are:
Sky Dive for SSNAP: Experience the thrill of a lifetime and sky dive for SSNAP. Various dates through the year
Blenheim Family Fun Run: 18 May 2025. Four events to choose from: one mile children’s run, buggy run, canine run or the main 7k.
Summer Garden Party: 22 June 2025. This event, held at Grove Rugby Club from 1 to 4pm, is for all SSNAP supporters, fundraisers, members and families. To book visit www.ssnap.org.uk/pages/RSVP or email: emily@ssnap.org.uk or call: 01865 221359
Tough Mudder South West: 16 August. A new event for SSNAP – why not join us?
Oxford Half Marathon: 12 October 2025. SSNAP’s biggest event of the year, whether running or supporting, they would love to see you there.
Christmas Service: 7 December 2025. Held at St Mary’s Church, Witney from 2pm this is a family focused service with mince pies and mulled wine. Everyone is welcome.
To find out more about how you can lend your support visit ssnap.org.uk
