One in seven babies born in the UK is admitted to a neonatal unit, according to Bliss - a charity for sick and premature babies
The families of premature babies face being pushed into poverty or missing out on time with their sick children amid the rising cost of living.
While the majority are born full term , the families of the sickest babies face an agonising hospital stay - and a hefty bill at the end of it, exacerbated by theLauren Ormston's pregnancy had been progressing normally when she suddenly went into labour at six months. At one point, Isla was rushed to Great Ormond Street hospital for surgery on her eye, but Oliver was not allowed to stay on the ward, so had to pay £400 for a hotel for two nights to be near his daughter.
The unaffordable cost of travelling to and from the neonatal unit had a tangible impact on how involved parents can be in their baby's care. Lauren and her fiance lived off hospital sandwiches and fast food - or quick pick-up meals - while Isla was in hospital.