'Life-changing' neonatal charity's services saved
Leo'sA neonatal charity hailed as "life-changing" has had some of its services saved through new funding.
Leo's, based in north-east England, supports families' mental health and well-being through initiatives such as neonatal peer support, which matches parents with people who have experienced similar trauma.
It was facing an uncertain future because of fewer donations and grants.
The charity has partnered with law firm Slater and Gordon, which has committed funding. Leo's founder Lottie King said: "If it hadn't have been for them, our whole neonatal provision would have gone."
The money has saved the charity's neonatal peer support service.
"Our neonatal trauma service has proved a lifeline to so many parents and it would have been absolutely devastating if we had to close," Ms King said.
Ms King, who is from Yarm in Stockton, set up the charity in 2018 after one of her own twin boys was born prematurely and died a few hours after birth.
Since then, the charity has helped thousands of families across the region.
Senior associate at Slater and Gordon in Newcastle John Lowther said the firm was "delighted" to partner with the organisation.
"We are so pleased we can help them to continue their life-changing work," Mr Lowther added.