Who can be cared for at Little Havens?

We can care for children and young people up to the age of 18 (including antenatal referrals), from Essex. Initial contact may be made either by the young person, a parent or carer, or any professional directly involved in the care of a child. Anyone making a referral must have the consent of the parent/guardian or young person.

Where a referral is urgent (for example for end-of-life care or care after the child has died) please call us on 01702 552 200 and ask to speak with the nurse in charge

As a guide, we care for babies, children and young people who have the following conditions or care needs:

• Conditions where curative treatment is possible but may fail. For example, premature babies, cancer, Congenital Heart Disease, liver and renal failure.
• Conditions where there is no cure and worsen over time. For example, very rare genetic and metabolic conditions with or without a definitive diagnosis.
• Conditions which are irreversible and may lead to severe health complications and care needs which are highly medically complex. For example, babies, children and young people with multiple disabilities following a brain or spinal cord injury. These children can become very unwell quickly and need frequent hospital or intensive care stays.
• Children who are receiving treatment in an intensive care setting and referred for palliative care support for the compassionate withdrawal of treatment.

This list is to be used as a guide only and is not exhaustive, and we welcome enquiries about our service by contacting us on 01702 552 200.

Other things to know:

• Babies and their families can be referred to Little Havens at any time, antenatally or postnatally, following diagnosis of a condition where there is a life-threatening diagnosis or medical uncertainty.

• Families can be referred to Little Havens immediately following a child’s death to access care in the Woodland Suite (or in the community), even if they haven't used the service before. Families can stay with their child in the hospice or in their own home for a few days after their child’s death to give time for goodbyes or to receive practical support. 

• If a young person over 16 years old is referred, their needs, preferences and goals will be considered on an individual basis to inform whether Little Havens is best placed to meet their needs. 

How can I refer a child to be cared for at Little Havens?

Please download our referral form for children and young people here, or for referrals antenatally please download the form here. Once completed, you can submit your referral to Little Havens using the form below. 

For more information on how to refer a child or young person to Little Havens, please call the Care Team in confidence on 01702 552 200.