“That was the best night sleep I had in weeks! You don’t realise it, but having those beds there when I needed it was amazing”” – heart dad – about CHSF-funded parent rooms
During the month of October…
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24 referrals received for targeted Family Support
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12 families engaged with
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11 young people and their families worked with and supported
Financial support in November…
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10 new families received travel grants
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9 families signposted to other services
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12 comfort and care packs given
- 23 Tesco vouchers given
We were delighted to connect with the Asian Association of Chesterfield & North Derbyshire. Their commitment to diversity and community support is truly inspiring.
They have kindly offered us the use of their vibrant, family-friendly space for our Cardiac Cafe. Our meeting highlighted their warm, collaborative spirit and their willingness to support us in multiple ways. We look forward to developing this partnership in the future.
Cardiac Cafe at The Place2Be
This month we hosted our first Inpatient Cardiac Café on the ward and what a lovely afternoon it was! Families joined us for sweet treats, teas and coffees, with support from our family support team, joined by the fantastic Cardiac Nurse Specialists. One sibling even got stuck into some wellbeing colouring while their mum enjoyed a much needed brew and a cake.
We’re so pleased to be offering moments like this, giving families a chance to step off the ward and look after their own wellbeing.
Creating these small pockets of calm means so much to the families we support. A Heart Dad told us:
“It’s fantastic! just to get some time away and break up the day. It gives us something to do and a chance to have a real chat.”
We’re hoping to bring more Inpatient Cardiac Cafés to the ward soon, especially for those who can’t attend our community events. ❤️
Youth Hub round-up by Lucy McMahon
Our Youth Hub event saw fantastic engagement this month, with young people with CHD coming together to have fun, make memories, and build the kind of peer connections that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
Feedback highlighted just how valued these spaces are, moments where young people can be themselves, try new activities, and feel surrounded by others who truly understand their experiences. The photos captured the spirit of the evening perfectly: joy, confidence, and a genuine sense of connection.
In the Community
I supported one family in completing their PIP form and offered a listening ear to a parent of a CHD teenager. These conversations and practical support continue to build trust, connection, and consistent support for families wherever they are in their CHD journey.
On the Wards
I supported two young people who were long-term inpatients, offering painting, crafting, and games sessions to break up long hospital days. One young person received resources to help him prepare for his GCSE mock exams, ensuring he could stay connected to his education even while in hospital.
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.
Family Support Update: Inclusion in action
Mansi Dass joined Children’s Heart Surgery Fund as Family Inclusion Worker in late June. Here’s an update from CHSF’s Head of Family Support, Sarah Cherry on how Mansi is dedicating her time to promoting inclusion, celebrating cultures and raising awareness to bridge...
Support for families: August 2025
“The ability to listen when you’re going through a hard time. Kindness in providing accommodation and vouchers when your child is in PICU or HDU. Empathising with your emotions and being a friendly face. "The highlight for us was our child receiving a Katie bear and a...
Support for Heart Families on the Neonatal Unit
The neonatal unit (ward L43) cares for babies who need extra help after they are born. This includes babies born with heart disease, and we asked Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Jenny Naylor to describe how CHSF work with NHS staff to support patient’s families...
