Sir Ed Davey MP visits Kingston Hospital

Ed Davey has been aware of Momentum since we were first established in 2004. After finding out more at our event at the Houses of Parliament last month, and hearing about the impact we are having on families in his constituency, he accepted an invitation to Kingston Hospital to see our work in action.

Ed Davey met one of our supported families alongside our CEO, Sarah Woods, our Founder and Honorary President, Bianca Effemey OBE, Momentum Family Support Worker, Ciara, and Corrinne Melian from the hospital team.

Bianca Effemey OBE gave Ed Davey a detailed insight into Momentum’s history, which traces back to when she was working as a receptionist at Kingston Hospital 22 years ago. During the visit, he saw first-hand the many areas of the wards that Momentum has refurbished and enhanced over the past 22 years. Bianca also shared heartfelt reflections on the charity’s journey, from its beginnings as a small, grassroots organisation to the vital service it is today, supporting hundreds of families across London, Surrey and Sussex.

Ed Davey met Oliver and his mother, Claire, who spoke movingly about the help they have received through Momentum. Corrinne Melian, Paediatric Family Liaison Nurse at Kingston Hospital, outlined the charity’s longstanding partnership with the hospital, and Ciara, a Momentum Family Support Worker, explained her role and the many practical and emotional ways she stands alongside parents and children during some of life’s most challenging moments.

Our CEO, Sarah Woods, spoke with Ed Davey about the charity’s vision for the future, highlighting the importance of collaborating with MPs and other key stakeholders.

Reflecting on the visit, Sarah Woods said: “The demand for services like Momentum continues to grow, and expanding our support relies on the backing of local politicians and other key stakeholders. We are incredibly grateful to Ed Davey for taking the time to visit Kingston Hospital, and we are excited to take the next steps in driving positive change for families with seriously ill children.”

Ed Davey MP for Kingston and Surbiton added: “It was amazing to speak to Oliver and his mum, Claire, to hear about the incredible amount of support Momentum is providing their whole family. The impact Momentum has on families, like Oliver and Claire’s, is profound. The team at Momentum has come a long way since 2004 to make sure families in Kingston and beyond are getting the support they desperately need. It is vital charities like Momentum are supported as demand increases. Thank you to everyone at Momentum for the invaluable support you provide.”

Find out more about our hospital partnerships and the NHS here