Improvements bring modern facilities for Whipps Cross mothers
After six months of extensive redevelopment, the antenatal and postnatal wards at Whipps Cross Hospital have reopened, offering mothers, babies, and their families upgraded facilities.
Most of the 40 beds are now single side rooms with en‑suite bathrooms and air conditioning, alongside a few three‑bedded bays. The redesign provides greater privacy, comfort, and dignity for every mother and baby, while the new layout is more efficient and better suited to the needs of women and staff.
The rooms are bright and airy, featuring large windows and concealed ceiling lights behind glass panels with unique floral patterns. The upgrade also allows fathers and partners to stay overnight — a feature not previously available and frequently requested by families.
The refurbishment directly addresses feedback about the older estate, including the lack of en‑suite bathrooms highlighted in the last CQC report. Completed on budget and ahead of schedule, the project was shaped by extensive patient input and strong staff engagement. The improved layout and acoustics have made the wards noticeably quieter, creating a calmer environment for rest and recovery.
The redevelopment focused on Mulberry Ward, the main postnatal and antenatal ward on the second floor, and provides a modern, welcoming environment for families while the Trust awaits construction of the new Whipps Cross Hospital.
“We wanted to make sure that every family experiences a welcoming, safe, and comfortable environment,” says Rumbi Mutema, Associate Director of Midwifery. “These improvements, made in just a few months thanks to incredible teamwork, are all about enhancing care for women and their babies.”
Mum of three, Rebecca, who recently gave birth on the ward to twins said: “This is my second birthing experience at the hospital, and I was so much more comfortable to stay until discharge.
“The changes have made a massive difference. The space seems brighter, and the staff seem happier. Every side room has a bed for Dad, or birthing partner, meaning they can be well rested to provide more support for Mum.”
Sujatha Thamban, Divisional Director for Women and Children, added: “Patient experience and feedback have improved significantly. That boosts staff wellbeing and morale, which in turn benefits care. Our teams helped shape the design and tested ideas, and you can see that reflected in the final result.”
The hospital thanks patients and visitors for their patience during the refurbishment, and maternity staff and wider teams for their dedication throughout the project. Improvements were funded in part by a grant from Barts Charity. Families have already praised the upgraded facilities and improved environment.