As the national security level has been increased to Critical following this week’s tragic events in Manchester we wanted to inform you that we have been reassured from the CEO of Guys & St Thomas’ Hospital Trust that it is business as usual at Evelina London and across the hospital networks.

You may see increased security presence within the Hospital as a precaution and we remind you to keep yourself and your family safe by knowing where you need to be in the hospital and providing the information if needed by any security staff.

Some areas around London and close to the Hospital will be protected by additional police and members of the armed forces, we know already today that Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament have additional support.

The area around the hospital e.g. the Southbank, Lambeth and Waterloo are running as normal with minimal if any disruption.

We have connections throughout the hospitals in Manchester and members who live in the area, our thoughts go out to all of the families and individuals affected by the incident and our thanks to the people who are supporting them at this time.

Some children and young people find visiting hospital stressful enough without additional worries, your children may want to discuss what they have seen on the news, or what they have heard from friends or family. The psychology, counselling and support teams within the Evelina are available, and we at ECHO are also always here to support our members - please do contact us if you'd like to speak to someone about these issues.

NSPCC and the BBC have put together the following information that you might find helpful:

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-we-do/news-opinion/supporting-children-worried-about-terrorism/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-40011787

We also know that parents can find the journey into London difficult, our team are on hand should you need any information about the local area or services affected by this change.

Some ECHO families were due to attend the Ariana Grande concert at the 02 with tickets donated by ECHO via box 4 kids, we have informed them that the event has been cancelled and will provide a different opportunity to them in the future.

If anyone has any questions do not hesitate in asking a member of the hospital or ECHO team.

Kind Regards

Samantha Johnson
Chief Executive, ECHO