Support for families: January 2026

During the month of January…

• 46 families worked with overall

• 28 families received a tailored packaged of Family Support

• 18 families engaged with

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• 4 young people and their families worked with and supported

• 12 Travel Grants given
• 7 attended Cardiac Cafe
• 25 Supermarket Vouchers given
• 5 Exceptional Grants given

New beginnings: Support for neonates

January is full of new beginnings. A brand new year and precious new arrivals of our littlest heart warriors on the neonatal ward (L43), the family support team delivered 8 Comfort and Care packs to celebrate our newest parents and welcome them into the CHSF family network.

The CHSF wellbeing trolley headed to Neonates to offer a hot-drink, sweet treats and some beautiful baby books and bonding squares to our newest arrivals in Leeds General Infirmary.

The Family Support team were able to deliver 100 tailored conversations with families to asses their needs during their stay in hospital.

These conversations are not measured in time, but in quality of the support delivered. Families have the opportunity to have a listening ear, speak openly about their needs and receive a service tailored to their specific situation. From a brew to an external referral, the family support team are able to deliver what is right for each family at the time that works best for them.

How is Family Support making a tangible difference to families?

Provided headphones
A parent on the ward wanted some headphones to escape the loud noises and focus on her audio book. CHSF was able to provide this to give a sense of normality and wellbeing for this family.

External grant referral
Family Support were able to complete a referral for a grant that enabled a family to navigate the cost of their stay in hospital, relieving their financial burden.

Over the phone support
The Family Support team were able to provide follow up phone calls after families had been discharged. This let families know the charity is still here for them, and led to further support for the families in the community.

Wellbeing for long-term families
This month the Family Support team were able to provide support to long-term inpatient families. This has included a gym membership, a trip to a spa and takeaway vouchers.
Giving families who have been in hospital for over 100 days the opportunity to take some time for themselves and prioritise their own wellbeing.

Building Lego = Building Wellbeing
A young patient on Ward L51 has been getting creative thanks to Lu and her weekly Lego delivery. This heart warrior is so proud of her collection, and we are proud of her too!

Expanding our support

One region. One network. One cause.
CHSF had a great meeting with the Cardiac Nurse Specialists across the region this month. We talked all things family, events and promoting the support we offer.

Adult Wellbeing Box
In 2026 we have introduced a wellbeing box for patients and visitors on ward L16. This includes some snacks, crafts and well being resources for older patients and their families.

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.