The Rotary Club of Hitchin Tilehouse has begun Phase Two of its Better Beginnings for Babies campaign, continuing its partnership with East & North Hertfordshire Hospitals' Charity to support vulnerable newborns and expectant mothers at Lister Hospital.

Phase One of the project raised over £26,000, funding a state-of-the-art Newborn Baby Simulator for the Neonatal Unit. This specialist equipment is already helping doctors, nurses, and midwives practise emergency procedures and routine care, improving confidence, teamwork, and clinical skills for staff caring for Hertfordshire's most vulnerable babies.

The club is now focusing on the next essential piece of equipment needed by the maternity team. Phase Two aims to raise £34,500 to purchase a Portable Ultrasound Scanner for women who have experienced recurrent miscarriages. These additional scans — not currently available on the NHS — offer reassurance, reduce anxiety, and have been shown to improve outcomes. Up to 200 women every year will benefit from this service.

Tilehouse Rotary is preparing a series of fundraising activities over the coming months and will be approaching local businesses for financial support. Individual donations remain vital, and the club hopes the generosity shown during Phase One will continue into this next stage. The aim is to complete the fundraising within the next few months.

Supporters can donate directly via the campaign page: https://justgiving.com/campaign/bbfb#sharePage

Better Beginnings for Babies is rooted in compassion, helping families through some of their most vulnerable moments. Tilehouse Rotary remains committed to ensuring every baby and every family receives the best possible start.