In 2016 the Sickle Cell Society received funding from the Big Lottery fund to launch a three-year project: The Sickle Cell South London Link. Since the project came into fruition it has made a big impact demonstrating the need for services within the Sickle Cell Community.

Since its launch, is has held over 50 activities for children and young people as well as activities for parent/careers. The activities have included a range of fun days out as well as informative workshops on key topics such as managing anxiety, transition into adult services, pain management and more.

Those who have participated in these activities and workshops have fed back the positive impact these days out have provided such as peer 2 peer support, reducing isolation, increasing confidence and feeling more positive about living with sickle cell.

Throughout the project we have also recruited 40+ volunteers, many living with sickle cell or carrying the sickle cell trait. We are so grateful to the volunteers who have given their time to help support the project and hope they have enjoyed their time and the training they have received on first aid and caring for people living with sickle cell.

On top of this we have worked closely with support groups to build capabilities across Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark as well as other areas such as Croydon, Wandsworth and Merton.

It has been a pleasure leading the project for the last 3 years and seeing first-hand the impact the project has had for individuals living with SCD both younger and older and parents & carers. The project has demonstrated the need for such services and while it is sad to see the project come to an end in August 2019, it has been fantastic seeing the positive impact it has made.

Thank you to all those who have participated including the volunteers for giving up their time.  Valerie and I have enjoyed working with you all.

Donna Prendergast

South London Community Manager

If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Sickle Cell Society on info@sicklecellsociety.org

Or if you are looking for support, information or advice then get in touch with our Helpline on helpline@sicklecellsociety.org