A great success at the family focused networking event at Newstead Abbey

Recently, The Harley Jae Trust organised a networking event in the form of a family fun day at Newstead Abbey and children and the families that have been supported by us were invited to the event.

Before the event, the Nottingham Paediatric Critical Care Unit approached us, asking whether we could fund an event that would give children with life limiting conditions and their families an opportunity to meet families who are experiencing similar challenges.

We knew this event would be beneficial to all parties involved, allowing children with several different difficulties including epilepsy, long term ventilation, physical disabilities and neurological impairments to meet each other and allow families to connect with one another. The event was a great opportunity for families to share their experiences and support each other.

Joe Rafter, Chairman of the Harley Jae Trust and father of the late Harley Jae commented: “I remember being in the same position as the families that attended as if it was yesterday. Meeting people who have shared the same experiences makes you realise that you’re not the only family going through it.

This really helped us come to terms with our son’s condition, that we were able to talk about it with other people. As a charity, we hope the families can forge relationships and support each other going forward. It’s a privilege to be able to hold these events for the children and the families to attend.

The event, which was held in the grounds of Newstead Abbey, offered a great day for the children and families including crafts, games, activities and food. All of which were provided free of charge to the families that attended. Also in attendance were twenty nurses that have helped in supporting the children in the Paediatric Care Unit.

 

The family fun day was a huge success and bonds were made that will last a lifetime thanks to the participation of everyone involved. We would like to thank everybody who attended the event as well as those who continually support and donate to the charity, which helps in the funding of these events, allowing children with life limiting conditions and their families to be able to make connections and continuously supported through their experience.