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Hugh’s Bill (Financial Support for Parents of Children in Hospital) - Clause 1: Report on merits of providing financial support to parents of children receiving care in hospital for extended periods

19 January 2024

Lead MP

Oliver Heald

Debate Type

Bill Debate

At a Glance

Oliver Heald raised concerns about hugh’s bill (financial support for parents of children in hospital) - clause 1: report on merits of providing financial support to parents of children receiving care in hospital for extended periods in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Oliver Heald

Opened the debate

The Bill aims to require the Secretary of State to report to Parliament on the merits of providing financial support to parents whose children are hospitalized for an extended period. The proposal stems from a constituent's experience, focusing on mental and physical support needs as well as potential financial assistance. It highlights cases where about 4,000 children annually spend more than two months continuously in hospital, affecting parent's ability to work or maintain employment due to the need for constant care and support.

Oliver Heald Lab

Colne Valley

He emphasises the case of his constituent, Ceri Menai-Davis, who lost his six-year-old son Hugh to a rare cancer and has since set up a charity called 'It’s Never You' to support parents of ill children. He highlights issues like access to food at weekends for hospital-staying parents and calls for government holistic support. He also mentions the need for financial assistance due to the severe economic burden faced by such families.

Jo Gideon Lab

Batley and Spen

[INTERVENTION] She praises Oliver Heald's right hon. and learned Friend for highlighting the powerful work of parents who campaign for changes in laws based on their lived experiences, citing an example from her own constituency.

Vicky Foxcroft Lab

Lewisham North

Compliments Sir Oliver Heald on his articulate arguments and expresses Labour's full support for the Bill. She suggests sharing prepared notes with him should he require them.

Jo Churchill Con

Nottingham North

Expresses gratitude towards Vicky Foxcroft and congratulates Sir Oliver Heald on bringing forward an important issue. She acknowledges the difficulties faced by parents whose children are in hospital for extended periods due to serious illnesses or injuries, such as Ceri and Frances who lost their son Hugh to cancer at age six. Jo Churchill commits to establishing a stakeholder forum to consult with key stakeholders, including parents, healthcare professionals, charities, civil society, and organisations that offer related support.

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