A council mayor visited a hospice to learn how it supported families of poorly children.

Waltham Forest mayor, councillor Chris Robbins CBE, visited Haven House Children’s Hospice, in Woodford Green, to learn more about the important work being delivered to families.

The hospice’s specialist care team supports families, both in the hospice, and at home, when they are caring for a seriously ill child.

The mayor was taken around the hospice by CEO, Mike Palfreman, and saw a play session in action and was able to meet parents where they shared how Haven House supports their child and family.

Anna, mum to 13 -year-old Samuel said: “I’d be totally lost without the support of Haven House. They help in so many ways, not only with the care they give, but also peace of mind that your child is in a safe environment.

“I am struggling with Samuel, as he is growing bigger, and he doesn’t sleep through the night, it’s so difficult for me to be mobile during the day.”

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Families of poorly children told the mayor of how the hospice supported them

The parents took the opportunity to speak to Cllr Robbins about the challenges they are faced with when looking after a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition.

Parents highlighted areas where they wish to see improvements, specifically to playground facilities and parking.

Although many parks in Waltham Forest contain inclusive play equipment, they expressed concern that they may not all be easily wheelchair accessible, and that Haven House was one of the only places they could bring their children to enjoy a wheelchair swing and the outdoors.