By Your Side: reaching families in hospital

We know that having a child in hospital can be a time of overwhelming stress and insecurity.

As well as emotional strain, parents often face a raft of practical challenges. Families can be left feeling confused by the medical system, uncertain about where to turn for help, and struggling under increased financial pressure as they reduce work hours to spend more time with their child.

How we support families in hospital

Our By Your Side parent advisers are located in hospitals, where they are able to guide parents through the maze of medical departments and jargon they face. We can answer parents’ questions and make sure they have the information they need – all without needing an appointment.

“I was physically and emotionally exhausted. But Ruth from Contact really listened to me and helped in so many ways. She was my little bit of sanity.” Parent Carer

We help families with their most pressing issues, including benefits – such as Disability Living Allowance payments when in hospital – getting the right support at school and accessing social care. We guide families through condition-specific services, help them find local support groups, and signpost to local organisations.

For more complex matters, we can refer families to our rare conditions officer, our specialist helpline or a local Contact office.

Where we’re based

We are delighted to be at the following By Your Side locations to deliver face-to-face support to families.

Great Ormond Street Hospital – Jill Ashford

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07887 759170

Jill is based at Great Ormond Street Hospital every Thursday in term time.

The Evelina Children’s Hospital – Ruth Stone

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07920654863

Ruth is based at The Evelina Children’s Hospital every Monday in term time.

Birmingham Children’s Hospital – Laura Miller

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07799918987

Laura is based at Birmingham Children’s Hospital every Wednesday in term time.

Alder Hey Children’s Hospital – Ruth Stone

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07920654863

A Family Support Consultant is based at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital once a month.

Great Northern Children’s Hospital- Ruth Stone

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07920654863

A Family Support Consultant is based at Great Northern Hospital .

Scotland – Lynn Shields

Email: [email protected]

Phone:  07421 309263

Our BYS Scotland team are taking enquiries from families and professionals, so do get in touch if you would like some support and information.

Please note, all parent advisers listed work part-time. If you need a more urgent reply, please get in touch with our helpline.