Charity Cosmic to support parents whose children are sent to ICU

The charity Cosmic has introduced a pioneering support service at St Mary's Hospital aimed at assisting parents facing trauma when their children are admitted to intensive care. Charlotte Creevy, whose son Seth spent three weeks in the PICU, recounted her profound anxiety and guilt during his treatment. Research conducted at the hospital revealed that 75-80% of parents develop PTSD after their children are discharged from intensive care units, underscoring the importance of timely support. The new service offers parents booklets with coping strategies, follow-up calls from trained staff, and access to counseling when necessary. Dr.

Simon Nadel noted that the emotional journey often begins when families return home, making this service vital. Cosmic has successfully piloted this initiative and is now funding it on a permanent basis. The charity aims to extend its post-PICU support service to additional NHS hospitals. This effort reflects a growing recognition of the psychological challenges faced by families during their children’s medical crises.