A couple who lost their baby due to neglect at a Kent hospital has given a heartfelt donation to help other parents who experience child loss.

Phoebe and Jim Brooks gifted 15 memorial bears to the maternity team at Medway Maritime Hospital after the pair’s son Jasper died a day after he was born in 2021.

An inquest earlier this year ruled the newborn died as a result of neglect at Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford.

Phoebe said: “The pain of losing a baby and the impact it has on parents and families lives is so severe it’s almost indescribable.”

To celebrate Jasper’s second birthday, the Dartford couple decided to give bears to the hospital to grieving families who suffer similar experiences.

“Our hope is that the bears will bring them some comfort while also providing them with something physical to hold during the darkest time of their lives,” the 36-year-old said.

The bears are created by Making Miracles charity and have a zipped pouch at the back to hold ashes or other items to remember their child.

Phoebe added: “Our five-year-old son Oscar has one called Jasper Bear which he cuddles at bedtime.”

Last year the couple welcomed their daughter Primrose who was born on November 13.

They praised the staff at Medway Maritime for supporting them throughout the anxious pregnancy.

Jim said: “After losing Jasper, the pregnancy with Primrose was always going to be incredibly stressful but the care we received helped tremendously which meant the world to our family. “

Chief executive of the Trust Jayne Black said: “We are extremely grateful to Phoebe and Jim for their donation.

“Losing a child is something nobody should ever have to go through but for those who do experience the sad loss of a child, the memorial bears will, I’m sure, provide comfort to those bereaved families who receive one.”