Welcome to Isaac's Pad

Key Information

  • The PPBF’s first property
  • Opened in 2011
  • Fully furnished
  • 2 bedrooms (double and twin)
  • 2 bathrooms
  • One Parking Space
  • Opposite Southampton General Hospital
  • Next door to the Princess Anne Hospital

Key Information

  • The PPBF’s first property
  • Opened in 2011
  • Fully furnished
  • 2 bedrooms (double and twin)
  • 2 bathrooms
  • One parking space
  • Opposite Southampton General Hospital
  • Next door to the Princess Anne Hospital

The Story

In the summer of 2011, Guernsey couple Jo and Robert Pickford were expecting their first child. Isaac was born prematurely at 34 weeks and 5 days in October with severe health complications, including a perforated bowel, the need for ventilation and a possible diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. He was urgently transferred from Guernsey to the Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton. After a tense and emotional series of events, including surgery for his abdomen and the uncertainty of his survival, Isaac made a remarkable recovery. He spent 29 days in the Neonatal Unit, during which his parents stayed in a nearby hotel, facing daily challenges and having to leave Isaac every night.

One day, the couple noticed a block of flats right next to Southampton Hospital and decided that they would fundraise to purchase one for future families needing somewhere to stay. However, unbeknownst to them, the wheels had already been set in motion by Isaac’s grandparents who would go on to make ‘Isaac’s Pad’ a reality. The flat was generously purchased and gifted to the PPBF, officially becoming the first ‘home from home’ for parents during turbulent times. Today, Isaac is a healthy and happy teenager, and the PPBF remains eternally grateful to the family who have facilitated the support of many other islanders for over a decade.    

The Impact

“It was an absolute godsend. It quickly felt like home and is only 100 steps away from the hospital. To be so close to Theo once he was born but still in hospital, it just made things so much easier and was a weight off our shoulders.”– Jay, mother of Theo, who stayed in Isaac’s Pad for almost 3 months when Theo was born prematurely.

“When I arrived at Isaac’s Pad, I broke down in tears with all the pictures of Guernsey. The Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation flat felt like there was a ‘big Guernsey hug’ holding and supporting us through the most difficult moment in our lives. The flat became a sanctuary; somewhere where we were able to cook, do our washing and a space I could express milk in private.” – Amanda Gray, mother of Umi Gray, who was born early weighing just 780 grams.  

“We stayed in Isaac’s Pad following my son being diagnosed with Leukaemia and having to spend a lot of time in Southampton. We were battling to find suitable accommodation for us and following the help of PPBF with our daughter, we were very kindly offered Isaac’s Pad. I remember walking through the door and suddenly feeling a weight off my shoulders. We immediately felt at home and what was particularly comforting was how the flat was decorated, keeping a close connection with Guernsey.” – Nick Leale, father of Ethan Leale, stayed in Isaac’s Pad during Ethan’s lifesaving treatment for leukaemia.

“When we used the PPBF flat, which was a massive help, Gracie had just turned eight years old and then had her ninth birthday in the apartment. Special memories were made there. Two years in Isaac’s Pad – definitely a home-from-home for us. Thank you all again.” – Stephi, mother of Gracie, stayed in Isaac’s Pad during Gracie’s lifesaving treatment for leukaemia.

The Future

To keep all three of the PPBF’s flats up and running for Guernsey families with a premature baby or critically ill child, around £66,000 needs to be raised every year. These funds cover the running, maintenance and management of the properties, so that parents and their loved ones can stay completely free of charge. The PPBF receives no government funding, so it relies solely on the generosity of individuals and businesses. Each of the flats is around 100 steps from the entrance from Southampton Hospital and there is no other service like this available to islanders. They are private, fully equipped and lovingly decorated, offering a peaceful space during difficult times. If you, or anyone you know, would like to support the PPBF’s compassionate housing, you can Buy-A-Night or make a one-off donation here. All contributions are hugely appreciated.