One of the biggest highlights of the year has been the overwhelmingly successful Youth Activity Days. These events have proven the power of peer support, allowing young people to connect with others who truly understand their journey—all within a safe, supportive, and fun environment. These gatherings have helped participants open up, form meaningful friendships, and experience unforgettable moments.
🍣 Cooking Up Confidence at Heartbeat House
This year saw the introduction of cooking sessions at Heartbeat House—a brand-new initiative focused on blending fun with life skills. The first session had everyone rolling their own sushi, followed by an exploration of authentic Indian cuisine. More than just cooking, these sessions created a space for young people to bond, share stories, and support one another in a relaxed setting.
🎄 A Christmas to Remember
Becky also organised the very first Christmas Party for ages 11-25—a joyful event that brought the community together in a truly special way. The younger group had a blast playing laser tag, while the older group hit the lanes for a fun-filled game of bowling. Two young adults even stepped up as helpers, supporting the younger attendees and showcasing the incredible sense of community fostered through this program.
🎂 Celebrating Milestones, Building Confidence
The Young Adult Group saw a particularly heart warming moment when they celebrated the 18th birthday of a new patient. It was more than just a party—it was a chance for young adults to feel normal, enjoy themselves, and build confidence in a supportive space. Watching young people laugh, share contacts, and form friendships proved that, even with half a heart, anything is possible.
🛋️ Creating a Safe Space: The New Teenager Room on E1 Ward
One exciting development has been the planning and refurbishment of a dedicated teenager room on the E1 ward—a much-welcomed initiative by both patients and staff. While challenges from hospital services have delayed the room’s completion, all resources and equipment are ready and waiting. Young people were directly involved in the planning process, ensuring the space will be safe, relaxing, and perfect for socialising and receiving youth support when complete.
🚀Looking Ahead: Exciting Developments for Cardiac Youth Support in 2025/26
As we step into the next chapter of 2025/26, the future is already shaping up to be an exciting and transformative year for both the Cardiac Youth Service and PEEER Youth Service. Following an incredibly successful 2024, the awareness of the cardiac youth role has expanded significantly across the Wessex region and beyond, highlighting the growing need for dedicated support for young people living with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).
One major focus for 2025 is strengthening support within the cardiac clinic. As referrals continue to surge, efforts are underway to recruit a second youth worker—an important step toward expanding capacity and reaching more young people aged 11-25.
Capturing those patients who might otherwise be missed during clinic visits is crucial for ensuring a smoother transition to adult services. This also presents a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of the available youth support and encourage participation in peer support groups, which are vital for fostering connection and community among CHD patients.
🌐 Launching Online Peer Support for Younger CHD Patients
A key development for 2025 will be the long-awaited launch of online peer support groups for younger patients. These groups, designed specifically for those living with CHD, will provide a safe, welcoming space for young people to connect with like-minded friends who share similar experiences.
Staffing limitations previously prevented this service from launching, but with increased resources and support, this vital initiative will finally become a reality—helping younger patients feel less isolated and more supported on their journey.
🎒 First-Ever Cardiac Residential Retreat Coming This September!
One of the most exciting milestones for 2025 will be the first-ever Cardiac Residential Weekend—a ground breaking event made possible by the generous support of Heartbeat.
Taking place in September at the Ferny Croft Activity Centre in the heart of the New Forest, this residential retreat will offer young people living with CHD the chance to step away from home and experience a safe, fun-filled environment. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with peers, build confidence, and take part in activities they might never have thought possible. It promises to be an unforgettable experience for both the young people and the dedicated staff involved.
💙 A Privilege to Support Young Hearts
Becky Cutler, Cardiac Youth Worker commented "Every single day, I am genuinely inspired by the resilience, determination, and compassion of the young people I have the privilege to support. Watching them push through challenges, support one another, and strive for success is truly awe-inspiring."
"It is an honour to work alongside Heartbeat, a charity that consistently puts patients and their families at the heart of everything they do. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives of young people living with CHD—creating opportunities, fostering connections, and helping them believe that anything is possible."
