Support for families: June 2025

“As we reach the halfway point of the year, we wanted to take a moment to share what the Family Support Team has achieved so far in 2025.

“Each quarter, we reflect on our progress to help everyone understand the impact we’ve made.

“This update gives a picture of our ‘Year-To-Date’ figures. From practical help to time out and a brew, we’re proud of how much has been delivered in just 6 months!” — Sarah Cherry, Head of Family Support

• 50 families have received supermarket vouchers
• 53 families have received travel grants
• 1288 total nights in CHSF Accommodation
• 15 families have accessed a family wellbeing activity or voucher
• 63 people have attended come to a Cardiac Cafe event

“Thank you so much! I’ve said it before, our journey would’ve been harder without your support. We will forever be grateful and do what we can to support the charity!”

Cardiac Cafe Sheffield

This month we hosted our June Cardiac Café in Sheffield. We were joined by 6 families including one youth and his mum and one Adult patient. The café was also attended by Stephen, a doctoral research fellow within Leeds Teaching Hospital.

It is clear to see how the cardiac cafes have developed over the years. Stephen gave such positive feedback about the value these hold, not only for families, but as a space to capture their voice. He spoke about how he could see families relax in a peer to peer environment and share their journey with each other.

Parents see the value in these events with two heart mums in Rotherham setting up their own Cardiac Café, supported by CHSF with resources. This highlights the value placed on connection within the heart community.

As part of Family Wellbeing we have introduced a gym pass for our families to use to promote their health and wellbeing. This is working in partnership with Snap Fitness who have provided a discounted rate.

“Lucy also kindly arranged for temporary access to a gym for me, which really helped with balancing my mental health whilst my daughter was being cared for.”

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.