BROMSGROVE MP Bradley Thomas visited The Feeding Trust in Alvechurch to learn more about the vital work supporting children with Paediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD), a complex condition which affects a child’s ability to eat, drink, and meet their nutritional needs.
Mr Thomas met the charity’s employees and parents, to discuss the challenges families face in accessing specialist support for PFD.
The discussion focused on how greater awareness and recognition of PFD at both a national and local level could improve outcomes for children and reduce pressure on health and education services.
Mr Thomas added he learnt a lot about how complex PFD was, how poorly understood the issue was and heard first hand from a parent about how challenging it was to navigate the NHS for support.
“They described The Feeding Trust as a ‘beacon of hope’ – and I understand why having visited.”
Michelle James, the parent of a child attending the feeding clinic, said it was an important opportunity to highlight the lack of NHS support and shine a light on the charity’s vital role. She added: “The trust provides not only expertise but also a place where individuals and families can truly be heard, understood and supported.”
Mr Thomas offered valuable advice on how the charity could raise awareness of PFD in Parliament and with local NHS commissioners.
Natalie Raven Morris, The Feeding Trust founder and CEO, said everyone was delighted to welcome Mr Thomas and appreciated his support in highlighting the urgent need for better understanding and pathways for children with feeding difficulties.
The charity plans to follow these discussions with new awareness schemes throughout next year.
Visit feedingtrust.org or follow The Feeding Trust on Facebook and Instagram for more on The Feeding Trust and its vital work.
