The crowd at Mal Pope’s Homecoming concert at the Swansea Building Society Arena erupted in applause as Swansea Bay Health Charity proudly announced on stage that it had reached the full £160,000 fundraising target for the Cwtsh Clos Appeal.

This achievement marks a major milestone for the charity, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Singleton Hospital and – most importantly – for families of premature and sick babies.

The aim of the Cwtsh Clos is to provide five “homes away from home” – safe, comforting spaces where parents can stay close to their babies during some of the most challenging days of their lives. This transformation is already on its way, and the fundraising efforts of the charity, community and their dedicated ambassador, Mal Pope, are what made this dream a reality.

Thanks to the people of Swansea Bay and beyond who came together with extraordinary generosity and heart. Over the course of the appeal:

255 fundraisers put their hearts into helping
1094 donors gave big, small and everything in between.

One ambassador, Mal Pope championed our cause, spreading awareness far and wide.

11 events brought us together with laughter, tears, stories and purpose.

18 local businesses showed up for their community.

Every pound, every share and every voice got us here. To all who played a part in the appeal, this is your victory too. The five refurbished homes for NICU families are now becoming reality.

Cathy Stevens, Community Support Charity Officer at Swansea Bay Health Charity said:

“We are truly overwhelmed by the kindness of our community. From local fundraisers to businesses, and from individual donors to our incredible ambassadors – everyone played a part in making Cwtsh Clos possible.”

The appeal, launched last year captured hearts across Swansea Bay, drawing support from local residents, hospital staff, public figures and even Swansea City Football Club, who sponsored the Cwtsh Clos Appeal during their 2024-25 season.

The charity has confirmed that plans to begin the next phase of work to refurbish the Cwtsh Clos accommodation are now moving forward, expected to begin soon.

Swansea Bay Health Charity extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the appeal and looks forward to sharing updates as the Cwtsh Clos project comes to life.