Southampton cardiac charity funds Heart Failure Psychological Therapist role

Local cardiac charity, Heartbeat, is expanding its support for heart patients across the region by funding a new specialist role at the University Hospital Southampton.

Rebecca Budge has joined the team as a Heart Failure Psychological Therapist, supporting cardiac patients aged 25 and over who are undergoing treatment in hospital. She will provide dedicated psychological care from the point of diagnosis, throughout each patient’s medical journey.

The newly funded role aims to improve heart failure outcomes by equipping patients with the knowledge, confidence, and coping strategies needed to manage their condition effectively.

This announcement marks the latest step in Heartbeat’s commitment to supporting cardiac care in the region. It follows the charity’s successful funding for two Cardiac Youth Workers, who support 11–25-year-olds facing the physical and emotional challenges of complex heart conditions.

Heartbeat CEO Mark Ind said: “A heart disease diagnosis can be life-changing at any age. Alongside the physical impact, many patients experience emotional and psychological challenges.

“At Heartbeat, we remain committed to improving the lives of people affected by heart conditions at every stage of their life. Funding this new role is another important step towards ensuring that no cardiac patient faces their journey alone and that emotional wellbeing is recognised as a vital part of cardiac care.”

The Heart Failure Psychological Therapist will ensure adult cardiac patients have access to tailored psychological support when they need it most. From diagnosis onwards, patients will receive compassionate, specialist care designed to help them build resilience, manage the emotional impact of heart failure, and navigate the challenges of living with a long-term condition.