At CHSF, we know that a hospital stay can be overwhelming, and the impact of congenital heart disease (CHD) extends beyond medical treatment.
That’s why our Family Support team is there to provide practical assistance, wellbeing support and moments of respite to families facing the challenges of a CHD diagnosis.
In January 2025 alone, our team reached an incredible 68 families – ensuring they had access to vital support when they needed it most.
Families reached this month
- 35 families received tailored family support
(27 of those were new referrals in January) - A further 33 families engaged with the Family Support team
A total of 68 families supported in January 2025
Financial Support In Numbers
- 12 families received travel grants
- 15 external financial grants completed
- 18 Tesco vouchers given
- 15 meal vouchers for the hospital canteen
- 3 CHSF Exceptional grants awarded
- 2 Morrisons vouchers for families with halal dietary requirements
Comfort and care package
14 families accessed our ‘Comfort and care package’ of activities and wellbeing resources, to offer focus and a much-needed distraction on the ward.
Family wellbeing
5 families supported to promote their wellbeing while on the wards…
Deliveroo voucher and pamper pack for sibling
“We appreciate your kindness it really made a difference and set Evie up to go home and have a more positive and uplifting week at school.”
Uber Eats voucher for a protected patient
“Loved the bacon milkshake and beef jerky!”
A trip to Hidden Village Leeds
“This gives us a chance to spend some time with our 3 year old. Things like this really add up, so it is great to not think about the cost.”
Axe throwing activity voucher
“Gave us a break from the hospital and allowed us to have some ‘us’ time. You go above and beyond to help the stay in hospital a little more bearable. Nothing is ever too much to ask for. They will always make sure they can help.”
Six week gym pass
“Being a primary carer for an 8 month old in hospital made me feel low and exhausted. Having a gym membership is a welcome change, has positive impact on my mood and energy and feeling good.”
Cardiac Cafe Hull
Our support extends beyond the hospital walls, with families coming together across the region at our Cardiac Café events.
“We absolutely loved being invited and attending the Cardiac Café in Hull. Callie-Mae is in her element playing with the girls (Olivia mainly). Ryan and I love to sit and chat to others. It’s so nice to talk to people about our little lady’s condition, when they understand what we are saying. We love these days. Thank you.”
Wellbeing trolleys
1 trolley visit to Ward L51
2 trolley visits to the adult ward
1 trolley at Cardiac Fetal Clinic
120 parents-to-be had access to our Wellbeing Station in Leeds Cardiac Fetal Clinic in January.
“The Cardiac Fetal Clinic Wellbeing Station has made a significant impact on CHSF families, with around 30 patients a week accessing it. Many families are meeting the Cardiac Team and learning about the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit for the first time.
“The Fetal trolley, stocked with water and snacks, serves as an excellent icebreaker, helping the Cardiac Nurse Specialist Team to ease families into what can often be a challenging conversation. It provides them with a small but meaningful moment to pause, process the information shared, and feel supported during this time.” – Emily Congenital Cardiac Nurse Specialist
Cross-working and signposting
14 external services and charities engaged with
January 2025’s impact shows the breadth of our work and the importance of ensuring families have both practical and wellbeing support throughout their journey with congenital heart disease.
It’s only with the help of our incredible supporters that we can continue to be there for every family that needs us. Thank you.
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