About Us

Every year, the Evelina Children’s Hospital treats many hundreds of children who have heart conditions, whether it be for surgery, catheretisation, investigation or just routine check-ups. ECHO supports these children and their parents and families in a number of ways, but, most importantly, by being there for them, being a shoulder to cry on, a friend in times of need, and a means of getting more practical help or support. Because almost everyone involved in the running of ECHO is the parent of a heart-child themselves, we understand more than anyone what a devastating and life-changing effect their child’s condition can have on family-life, but realise how much difference the support and help of other families, who are going through, or have gone through the same difficulties, can make.

We support children and families in the following ways:

• Newsletter – sent out free of charge four times a year
• Website with message boards for on-line support, information and links to other, relevant sites and organisations
• Ward visits to parents whose child is an in-patient
• Telephone support
• Pre Natal support – telephone volunteers and specialised ante-natal classes
• Social events, parties and meetings
• Support and social events for older children and teenagers
• Provisions of toys, facilities and small items of medical equipment for the Cardiac Ward at the Evelina Children’s Hospital.

Membership of ECHO is free and open to all families whose heart child is treated at the Evelina Hospital, no matter where they live.