We’ve answered some of our frequently asked questions below.
I’m currently on the RVI’s Neonatal Unit, can Tiny Lives support me?
Yes! Please visit our support page where you can find information on how Tiny Lives can support you including parking permits and mental health support.
I was meant to be at the RVI but there is no cot space. Can I still access support?
Yes! Please contact us at [email protected] and a member of our team will be in touch with you as soon as possible. We work 9:00 – 17:00, Monday to Friday.
Are your parent-baby classes free?
Yes! All of our classes, courses and support groups are free for our neonatal families. Kind donations from our wonderful supporters make this possible.
Can I access support after I’ve left the unit?
Yes! Tiny Lives are here for you throughout your entire journey. We have peer support groups, individual or couples counselling, parent-baby groups and more.
Do you offer bereavement support?
Yes. We offer bereavement support including counselling that you can self-refer to, no matter how long ago you were on the unit.
Can you help with funeral costs?
Unfortunately, this is not something Tiny Lives is currently able to assist with. Sands is able to assist and you can access support from the government.
How can I fundraise for Tiny Lives?
You can fundraise for Tiny Lives through your own event or challenge! We’ve had supporters sky dive, host a bake sale, bike coast to coast and even visit as many play parks in one summer! We’ve got a great guide on fundraising and a step by step guide of how to get involved!
I’ve already organised a fundraiser, what do I do next?
All you need to do is fill in this form and Louise will be in touch to see how we can support you and to discuss any fundraising materials you may want!
How do I register to run the GNR?
We open our expression of interest form in September every year. We offer charity places the following from the January and our places always go quickly! If you are running with your own number, we invite you to join #TeamTinyLives. All information can be found here.
Can I have a collection tub for my business?
Yes! If you’d like to host a collection tub please see all information here.
How can I donate to Tiny Lives?
You can donate directly to use by using this link. If you require bank details for a transfer, please contact us at [email protected]
Can I donate baby clothing?
We are unable to accept baby clothing, furniture or toys. We recommend you get in touch with Love, Amelia who accept donations and help families across the North East.
Can I donate milk?
Before a mother can donate milk a rigorous testing /screening process needs to be undertaken. The milk bank will provide the necessary information regarding this. You must contact Heart Milk Foundation directly.
Can I donate knitting?
We’re often inundated with knitting and are sometimes unable to accept donations of knitting. We keep this page updated with the latest information on donating.
Do Tiny Lives visit schools?
Yes! You can arrange a visit from Tiny Lives by contacting [email protected]
Can I leave a gift in my will?
If you feel you would like to leave a legacy, you can find more information here.
Can you turn my wedding dress into a baby gown?
This is not something Tiny Lives offers or is able to do. There are businesses that offer this service such as Dresses for Angels and Cherished Gowns.
Who can attend Meet, Chat, Learn sessions?
Meet, Chat, Learn is open to all families across the North East and North Cumbria who have experienced neonatal care.
Which parent and baby group should I attend?
We’ve put together a flowchart and age guidance to help you better identify which group/class is best for you and your baby.
Do you offer classes outside of Newcastle?
As well as sessions in Newcastle, we also run groups in Gateshead and South Shields. Our programme continues to grow, so keep an eye on the Meet, Chat, Learn page for the latest locations and upcoming sessions.
Are all classes booked by term?
Most of our classes run on a termly basis and are booked as a full course.There are two exceptions:
Bubbles: weekly sessions that can be booked individually and Stay & Play: monthly sessions that can be booked separately.
The class I want to attend is full. What should I do?
We would encourage you to join the waiting list. Places often become available due to cancellations or changes in circumstances, and being on the waiting list means we’ll be able to contact you if a space becomes available.
How are bookings and waiting lists managed?
All Meet, Chat, Learn bookings and waiting lists are managed directly by the Tiny Lives team. When allocating places, we consider each family’s circumstances and support needs. This helps us ensure that families who may benefit most from a service, particularly those who have not previously accessed Meet, Chat, Learn support, have the opportunity to take part. We understand this can sometimes mean places are not allocated strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, but this approach allows us to support as many families as possible in a fair and meaningful way.
How many terms can I attend?
Our classes are often in high demand, and we’re committed to making sure as many families as possible have the chance to benefit from them.
Many families attend for several terms, and we’re always pleased to welcome returning families where space allows. However, when there are families waiting for a place, we may limit the number of terms that a family can attend the same class. In most cases, this applies after four consecutive terms.
We’ll always consider individual circumstances and discuss any changes with you beforehand. Thank you for helping us make our services accessible to more babies, children and families who need support.
