Cardiac Youth Service Update

Our Cardiac Youth Service has been buzzing with activity, bringing young people with congenital heart conditions together for friendship, confidence-building, and fun-filled opportunities. Here’s a round-up of recent highlights and exciting events to come.

Outdoor Residential – Ferny Croft

On the 6th and 7th September, 12 young people took part in a two-day residential at Ferny Croft Outdoor Activity Centre in the New Forest.

Supported by generous corporate sponsorship, the weekend was packed with outdoor challenges, teambuilding activities, and the chance to meet new friends. More importantly, it gave participants a safe space to build self-esteem, confidence, and the reassuring knowledge that they are not alone in living with a heart condition.

Welcoming Our New Youth Worker

We’re thrilled to share that Heartbeat has approved and funded a second Cardiac Youth Worker.

Kim Cooke has recently joined the team and is already settling in well. She has received her first referral for youth intervention and is working closely with Becky to help plan events and develop the service further.

Upcoming Events

Here’s a snapshot of what’s coming up for our young people and their families:

• 29th September – Launch of our cardiac-exclusive online young adults’ group. Three weekly sessions where young people with CHD can connect, socialise, gain support, and have fun.

• 27th October – A workshop at LifeLab, followed by lunch and a facilitated youth group activity at Heartbeat House.

• November – Christmas parties and festive activities (dates and venues currently being confirmed).

• 20th December – Thanks to the sponsorship of Wight Coaches, families will enjoy the IOW Christmas Lights Tour. The trip includes a ferry journey, a coach-led light tour across the island, and a return to the mainland.

Looking Ahead to 2026

There are even bigger plans on the horizon, including:

• A theatre trip to the Mayflower Theatre.

• Another two-day residential at Avon Tyrrell for 15 young people and 4 staff, funded by Youth UK and facilitated by Heartbeat youth workers.

• Regular and varied activities such as:

  • Fitness workshops to support physical health.

  • Cookery sessions at Heartbeat House.

  • Youth groups and teambuilding sessions, both at Heartbeat House and in the community.

  • A LifeLab publication project.

  • Mentoring opportunities for young adults with CHD (volunteers welcome – DBS required).

    
    

We are so proud of the growth of our Cardiac Youth Service and the opportunities it continues to offer. Thank you to our incredible supporters, sponsors, and volunteers who make all of this possible.