AN INNOVATIVE technique to improve the welfare of premature babies could be coming to Southend Hospital.

Crocheted octopuses have been introduced to the incubators of premature babies at level 3 neonatal units, reserved for the sickest children, in a bid to make them feel safer and fare better.

The idea is believed to have originated in Denmark where researchers found that premature babies who cuddled up with an octopus had more regular heartbeats, better breathing, and higher levels of oxygen in their blood.

Not only that, but the babies were also less likely to pull out their monitors and tubes.

The tentacles of the octopus supposedly remind these babies of their mum’s umbilical cord, and the soft knit bodies are said remind them of the womb.

Now, Southend Hospital, which only operates a level 2 neonatal unit, is considering adopting the practice after increased interest from parents and staff in the area.

Keen crocheter Natalie Simpson, from Leigh, said: “I saw an article about the crocheted octopuses on Facebook and shared it with my friends once I had checked with Southend Hospital.

“They said they would be happy to receive crocheted octopuses if we made them for the neonatal ward.

“In my experience people who crochet love a good reason to crochet.

“I am planning on popping in there to check the pattern is correct and safe, and then gather some more information on the best way for people to take in their donations.”

Maureen Barnes, Matron for Women and Children’s Directorate at Southend Hospital, said: “The crocheted octopus is a fairly new initiative being trialled in several level 3 Neonatal Units that look after extremely pre-term babies across the country.

“The Neonatal Unit at Southend is a level 2 unit admitting around 450 babies each year.

“The crocheted tentacles are thought to offer some comfort for the baby to cling to and ideally lower the risk of them grasping wires or lines infusing vital fluids.

“Most babies of extreme prematurity are transferred to level 3 specialist centres, some of whom are involved in researching the benefits of the octopus trial.

“Consequently, some babies have returned to our unit with an octopus they have received at a specialist centre, which has increased the interest from parents and staff alike.

“We are currently working with our colleagues at level 3 specialist units and also units across mid and south Essex to assess the benefits for less premature babies who are admitted to a level 2 unit like ours here at Southend.

“While we very much appreciate the kind offers from members of the public to crochet for us.

“We first need to make sure the evidence supports the benefits for our level 3 babies and then ensure that any donations meet the appropriate safety and hygiene standards before we are in a position to proceed.”

For info about the initiative visit facebook.com/groups/octopusforapreemie/