Several of them already had considerable experience in organising the welfare and medical support necessary for such special holidays. Others were able to offer professional advice and some the benefit of personal experience as the parent of a sick and disabled child. All were committed to developing the objects of this exciting new adventure in order to benefit sick and disabled children throughout Great Britain.
In the very beginning a steering committee met regularly to progress the charity; then Trustees were sought and appointed. With the help of a charity consultant the Trust Deed was drafted and submitted to the Charity Commissioners resulting in registration in February 1988. A formal management structure was agreed.
Guidelines for the children who will benefit from the charity were established and the necessary questionnaires introduced to enable the charity to function to the best advantage of the children.
The Medical Advisory Panel, with previous experience in this field, was appointed and the charities own code of practice established.
Since the beginning, everyone involved has given their time and services free. The only expenses incurred have been for professional services and advice.In December 1989 the first ambulant party, consisting of 12 children flew to Orlando. Florida, sponsored by the Malcolm Sargent Cancer Fund for Children.Since registration 33 groups totalling 387 children have benefited from the charity.
In May 1994 the Daily Mirror sponsored 'Churchillian Awards', inspired by the 'Winston Churchill's Britain at War Theme Museum', were presented at the Royal Albert Hall. Our Director, Malcolm Haddow, was the first recipient of the award for 'Community Spirit' having been chosen from nominations made by the readers of the Daily Mirror.
In the 2007 New Years Honours list saw the founders of the NHF, Malcolm and Liz Haddow, were each awarded an MBE for their services to children and families. Both are extremely proud and humbled to have this award.
