Local support groups
Our local family support groups are a lovely introduction to the charity and other local heart families. These groups are open to the whole family and are best described as mini family fun days!
What you can expect
Families tell us they can sometimes feel isolated once they have received their child’s diagnosis, and although you might feel like you are going through this alone, we promise you aren’t, even though it may feel that way sometimes.
Each local group will have one or two voluntary group organisers who have a child with heart disease. Our group organisers arrange group meet-ups four or five times yearly, bursting with family activities, tasty treats and plenty of lovely, local heart families to get to know. With groups throughout Northern Ireland, you won’t have far to go to find your closest heart family group.
“I soon came to realise that I wasn’t alone and infact I was so lucky to have such great support from our local family support group.”
Heart Parent
Find a local support group
With groups throughout Northern Ireland, you won’t have far to go to find your closest heart family group.
Antrim
We would really like to see you at our Antrim heart family group. We get together four or five times yearly but are always at the end of the phone if you need us. We have lots of fun activities for the kids to get involved with—pizza workshops, cinema trips, and visits to the farm, to name a few! Whilst the kids are having fun with activities, it gives parents and family members a chance to talk with other local families that understand the world of CHD!
Amanda: 075 4539 8387
Vikki: 078 0306 6176
East Antrim
I know that having a child or young person with a heart defect can, at times, be incredibly tough. Sometimes, sharing your worries and concerns with others who have had the same experiences can really help. Our East Antrim group offers a friendly get together for parents, children, siblings and all extended family members. Together, we have lots of fun, chat, support each other and, most importantly, share our experiences of being a Heart Family with others in a similar situation. We love to see and welcome new families! So please come along. You will be very welcome.
Jennifer: 079 7139 2031
Belfast
At our Belfast heart family group, we host gatherings four or five times a year, creating opportunities for kids to enjoy exciting activities like pizza workshops, farm visits, and trips to the cinema. These events also give parents and families the chance to build connections with others facing similar challenges. We’re always available if you need a listening ear.
Jean: 078 0352 1047
Derry/Londonderry
As heart parents ourselves and within our roles as Derry/Londonderry Group Organisers, we find bringing other local heart families together really rewarding. It takes courage to come out and meet other families, but it is just great! Talking about our children’s conditions helps us to understand and handle them better. Our group meet-ups are super friendly and relaxed. There is no pressure to talk and no pressure to come, but know we are here and will welcome you whenever you feel ready!
Brenda: 078 6429 9399
Enniskillen
Our Enniskillen heart family group is all about creating a warm, supportive environment for families living with CHD. Whether you want to talk, learn from others, or just take part in our relaxed and friendly meet-ups, we’re here to welcome you. There’s never any pressure—just come along when you’re ready.
Jennifer: 077 4506 8571
Liz: 079 2191 5519
Omagh
The Omagh heart family group is a place where families can find understanding, connection, and encouragement. We know how much courage it takes to meet others, but our gatherings are always welcoming and pressure-free. Whether you need advice or simply want to enjoy some company, we’d love to see you.
Kathryn: 077 9539 2666
Lurgan & Craigavon
Join us at our Lurgan and Craigavon heart family group, where we host gatherings four or five times a year. These events are perfect for children to take part in exciting activities like pizza-making, farm trips, or movie days, while parents can meet and connect with others who share similar experiences. We’re just a phone call away if you need us.
We are currently seeking a new group organiser for this area, but in the meantime, please contact:
Jennifer on 077 4506 8571 for more information.
South Down
Our South Down heart family group is dedicated to bringing families together for support and connection. While kids enjoy activities like pizza-making and cinema trips, parents can share experiences with others who truly understand the CHD journey.
We are currently seeking a Group Organiser, but in the meantime, please reach out to
Jennifer on 077 4506 8571 for more information.
North Down
We are delighted to set up a new support group in the North Down Area. An opportunity to bring local families together for connection, support and friendship throughout the year.
If you would like to find out more about this group please contact
Helen on 07555 286400 for more information.
Mid Ulster
We are thrilled to have a local support group set up in Mid Ulster. Each of our groups are lead by volunteer who have a child with heart disease.
Each group meets four to five times a year for an array of activities for the whole family.
Together we have lots of fun and most importantly share of experiences of CHD providing support and connection.
We would love to see local families from Mid Ulster at our new local group!
Please contact
Sophia on 07813 899045 for more information.
Get involved
Make a difference in the lives of heart families! Whether you’d like to fundraise, volunteer, or become a corporate partner, there are so many ways to get involved with CHT.
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