The care team at a leading children’s hospice have received a prestigious award in recognition of the care and support they provide one grateful family.
The presentation was made by Fostering Together, the fostering service dedicated to caring for children with disabilities, to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) staff at The Nook.
EACH Service Manager Louise Gower and Care Managers Emma Chilvers and Becky Thompson were on hand to receive the Big Heart award, after being nominated by foster parents Laura and Alex Manchester.
The couple have three foster children, including Tommy, who has been receiving care from EACH since 2017.
He was admitted to The Nook for step down care in March, following an acute deterioration in his heath and a prolonged hospital admission.
The family stayed at the hospice for eight weeks and it was for the care team’s work during that period – going “above and beyond” and being a source of “continuous support” – that they were nominated for the Big Heart award.
It was presented by Fostering Together Managing Director Neil Annis during a ceremony on Wednesday, 25th September.
“The great team of people here can see beyond Tommy’s disabilities and complex health needs,” said Laura.
“They’ve worked with us to help him feel safe, comfortable and confident.
“Tommy enjoys his regular time with the play therapist, with tailored sessions to meet his needs and interests.
“Likewise, the symptom management team have been there for us, supporting us during a hospital admission and throughout the time we’ve been here, staying late to attend meetings with consultants and being on the end of a phone when we’ve had a wobble.
“It’s an amazing group of people who know how to care for Tommy, getting to know him for who he is.
“They’ve also got to know us a family, and any visitors have been welcomed with open arms. They’ve commented how wonderful the atmosphere is here and how passionate the team are.
“It barely feels enough to say ‘thank you’, but hopefully this award is a small acknowledgement of the hard work everyone puts in.”
The Big Heart award is presented by Fostering Together, to celebrate the work individuals and organisations put in to support children with disabilities.
“We introduced the award to recognise those who do amazing things to help these children reach their full potential,” said Neil.
“Our plaque is a way of saying thank you and a token of appreciation from the Fostering Together community.”
Neil was joined at The Nook by Fostering Together Director Matt Foulkes and Senior Practitioner Maria Merchant.
Louise said she was proud and delighted to receive the award on behalf of EACH.
“It’s a real honour and privilege, both to have been nominated by Laura and Alex and then to receive our beautiful Big Heart award,” she said.
“It’s a real joy to work with this particular family, and we’re so pleased they’re happy with the care and support we provide.
“We’re grateful to everyone who made this possible, as well as sparing the time to visit and make the official presentation.”
