Ronald McDonald House Herston (RMH) is now offering parents with an infant in the neonatal nurseries at RBWH the opportunity to use their facilities from Monday to Friday between 9am to 4pm. This will provide parents with a great opportunity to take a break from the hospital environment and the chance to relax with other parents in a friendly homelike atmosphere.

RMH is a community living facility which offers a "home away from home" for the families of seriously ill children who are undergoing medical treatment at the RBWH or RCH. It gives parents the chance to draw hope and comfort from other families in similar situations. Many non Brisband based parents of premature infants reside at the house while their baby is being cared for in the Grantley Stable neonatal nurseries. Day visitors to the house will have access to the House's communal kitchens, dining areas, family lounge, TV lounge, balconies, playroom, outdoor play are, teen activity room, DVDs, games, books, magazines, public telephones and internet kiosk. Free tea and coffee is available. Coin operated snack and soft drink machines are also available. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own food.

For those prem parents with other children to care for, the House will provide an excellent break for the kids between visits to the nursery. However the House does not provide childcare and the parents will be responsible for the supervision of their children at all times.

If you are a Royal prem parent and you wish to take advantage of this program, please talk with Ward staff or a Social Worker.

Let's hop other RMHs around Australia adopt similar programs.