Support for families: July 2025

“Nice to have a chat with a friendly face offering financial and moral support” – parent on the ward

• 5 new families received travel grants

• 3 wellbeing grants given

• 6 external grants given

• 39 Tesco vouchers given

This month we hosted our Cardiac Cafe in Barnsley! We had three families join us at the Library @ The Lightbox, including one grandparent and one youth.

The morning was a lovely opportunity for the families to meet CHSF staff and each other.

Sign up for future events at chsf.org.uk/cardiac-cafe

Super Siblings

CHSF understands the impact of having a sibling in hospital.

When a patient’s big brother had to miss school to be at the hospital due to his baby sister being unstable, it was such a understandably difficult time for him. He also told the nurses he missed out on going on a trip to an ice cream parlour with his school friends.

CHSF knew what needed to be done and discussed an ice cream station treat on the ward for siblings. Sadly baby sister passed away before we were able to do this.

It is important that these small gestures are not forgotten and CHSF delivers on commitments made – we will be contacting the family following some breathing space to offer ice-creams and sweet treats for the whole family from the comfort of their home.

Accommodation

“The parent accommodation offers such value to our families not only financially but emotionally. We have witnessed some very poorly children in the hospital and there have been times when parents have received news that there child is deteriorating.

The closeness of the accommodation that CHSF offers means parents can be by their bedside without taking a 90 mile trip.

“Being there to hold your child’s hand when they need you, when you need them and when time is precious – is priceless” — Nurse, Leeds Congenital Heart Unit

Breaking down barriers

Our new Family Support Inclusion Worker Mansi has already shown the true benefit of her role this month.

During a shadow day on PICU we met a family who had been admitted as an emergency. Mum stated that she does not speak English, and speaks Urdu. Mansi who also speaks Urdu very quickly stepped in to communicate with Mum.

The basic need for clear communication and positive interaction with a person during a distressing time is invaluable. Through overcoming a language barrier we were able to give Mum the right support at the right time ensuring Mum felt heard and listened to.

This is what we hope for all parents/carers and patients we support at CHSF, and with the help of Mansi we can truly deliver on our commitment to families!

“It has been an exceptionally amazing month being a part of CHSF. As a Family Support Inclusion Worker, I have truly felt included and welcomed by the team. I’m looking forward to being part of more wonderful work in the future, supporting our beautiful families.” – Mansi

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.