THE neonatal unit at Basingstoke hospital can breathe a little easier thanks to a generous donation.

The unit has purchased a new infant ventilator, which can provide both invasive and non-invasive ventilation depending on the varying needs of the infant.

With Basingstoke’s neonatal unit admitting on average 240 babies a year, this new hi-tech equipment is set to make a real difference in early child care.

The hi-tech equipment cost £28,000 and was purchased with help from a donation made by Trevor Goodall and his organisation New Life – a charity raising money for special care neonatal units.

Trevor founded the charity in 1995 in memory of his sons Joshua and Samuel.

His twin boys were born three months early weighing just 1lb 1oz and 1lb 3oz but both died one week later.

Now, 23 years later, Trevor’s commitment to raising money for this cause close to his heart has only strengthened as the charity continues to fund equipment helping to increase the chance of survival for many premature and seriously ill babies.

To date, Trevor and his volunteers have raised in excess of £500,000, helping Basingstoke hospital as well as other hospitals around the country.

Trevor said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to support the neonatal unit at Basingstoke hospital and know the difference this will make to families. The care the staff provide on the unit is fantastic and we are so happy to support the trust.”

Trish LeFlufy, operational service manager for child health for Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , added: “We are incredibly thankful for the generous donation made by Trevor and his charity. Our staff do an amazing job looking after our smallest patients and their families, and this new equipment helps to ensure we are providing the best possible care.”