Our Children’s Therapy Legacy

I worked at White Lodge from 1996 to 2007, and they were wonderful years! Although I was not part of the children’s therapy team, I worked closely with them and admired their passion, skill, commitment and knowledge - and know the difference they made to the lives of many many families.

Former staff member

Like many, White Lodge became our light in the tunnel. We were at a low point at the start of our journey with our child- not knowing what to do or where our path was going to take us. 

We were so lucky to be given a space at White Lodge, and the therapy team, along with other great supporters who worked there, helped guide us down this unknown road.

The support not just for our child, but for us as parents, was truly unmatched to anything we had been a part of before.

We will be forever greatful for the support, love, laughs and kindness that we had with Hazel and all the team. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Lizzie Barton, parent/carer

My son with CP was seen at White Lodge from the early age of 6 months old until he was 5 years old.  It is here that he received his vital weekly physiotherapy, horse riding, hydrotherapy, gymnastics, and nursery placement, which began his therapy journey.  

He is now 18, without these services, he wouldn’t be as mobile as he is today, or such a determined young man. Through the years, we have met so many amazing therapists who have known how to best support him. 

White Lodge will always have a special place in my heart, the place my son could be himself, a place I could speak openly of his needs and with the support of the best therapists and wonderful people who always made us feel like White Lodge was our second home.  

My sons physiotherapist was instrumental in treating him from such an early age- how to make the most of his body, how to encourage him to push himself that little further, so much so she remains a lifelong friend.  

We are exceedingly grateful to the White Lodge Children’s Therapy services provided over the years.  Thank you all.

Parent/carer

I spent 12 very happy years working at White Lodge as part of the therapy team in the 1990’s. I have many happy memories of the families, relationships formed, and successes shared. I learnt so much, both personally and professionally, during this time. Thoughts with staff and families as this service transitions.  A sad time for sure. 

Former physiotherapist

Our daughter is truly a blessing but her diagnosis came as a surprise at birth. The hospital was quick to refer her for ongoing therapy at White Lodge. I still remember the assessment with our 3 therapists. They were so gentle and understanding , we very quickly became at ease with them and began our own version of normal. 

Not only did the team support my daughter in her therapy, they were a shoulder to lean on, someone to listen to our worries and concerns but above all, they worked from their hearts and showed our daughter so much love and care. 

White Lodge has been a blessing for us, you all have. We wish you all the best for the future.

Parent/carer

We have so much as a family to thank the team at White Lodge for. When my child was born prematurely and I found out he’d have lots of complex needs, including Cerebral Palsy, I felt lost. Our Neonatal Outreach nurse helped us get referred to White Lodge, I truly had no idea of the impact this would have. 

From 7 month old to 4 years, my boy had the best therapy support any parent could dream of for their child. Kind, caring and knowledgeable therapists and therapy assistants gave him hours of their time. He accessed regular sessions for physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, speech and language, dysphasia support and occupational therapy. For one place to have such an incredible offer of staff, therapies and equipment was so inspiring. We always felt the team worked with us as a family. We shared ideas and books that would help us understand his needs, and we discussed equipment and ways to adapt activities so my son never had to miss out. 

Without their support I have no doubt my son would be a very different boy today. The boy who “would likely never walk, talk, eat or drink” was never once held back there; only positively encouraged to aim high and exceed all medical expectations.

Now, with thanks to the incredible team, he can walk with a gait trainer, eat all food orally, drink thickened fluids, cycle a bike … I know his life changed for the better, because he had White Lodge therapy team in it. And for that I’m forever grateful. 

Stephanie, parent/carer

The therapy team have helped my daughter so much since she was born very premature. Their guidance and support have constantly given me confidence and reassurance.

The change I've seen in my daughter is amazing, without them I honestly dont know what we would have done, we are so saddened to see this ending, the staff are wonderful and go above and beyond for the children but also the parents and carers as well.

Rebecca, parent/carer

Our son wouldn’t be where he is today without the incredible support he received at White Lodge. His physio has been truly amazing, not only in the care, patience, and dedication she has shown him, but in the way she has believed in him every step of the way.

She has helped him grow stronger, more confident, and capable in ways we once only hoped for. She has been an incredible source of support for me, offering encouragement, understanding, and reassurances through every challenge.

We are so grateful for everything she has done for him and for our family. She has made a lasting difference that we will never forget.

Zara, parent/carer

Our son was fortunate to be referred to White Lodge from the hospital, following his traumatic birth and HIE, leading to Cerebral Palsy, dysphagia and complex speech and language disorder. At a very stressful time I felt some relief from the very first assesment. It was immediatly clear this is a specialist place. The multidisciplinary working is just so essential for kids who have complex needs. 

After visiting various nurseries in preparation for returning to work, no where was able to accomodate his needs. Thankfully he was able to attend White Lodge [Nursery], although less hours than originally planned, it worked! It made total sense the staff were well trained to deal with his medical needs and therapy could take place at the same time.

All staff understood the importance of his therapy goals, how to use his equipment  and how to make the most of every day for development. Physio, OT and Speech & language therapy input was consistent! When a child is meeting milestones many months late, it matters to have people who are fully dedicated to helping them reach their potential.

Thank you for thinking outside the box and making it your mission to deliver the service the children need and deserve. White Lodge will not be the same; a precious team and service which sadly future kids will not get the benefit from unless able to fund privately. 

Thank you to all the therapy team for being there at the beginning in those first crucial years! Your dedication has had such a positive impact!

Kim, parent/carer

As a nurse on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St Peter’s hospital, I was saddened to hear that children’s therapy would no longer be provided by the exceptional team at White Lodge. It was a comfort to know that should our babies require further specialist intervention after discharge from NICU, this would have been provided by the fantastic multidisciplinary team at White Lodge.

The 31st March will be a sad day when this service ceases at WL, and current and future families will no longer be able to access the amazing service from this dedicated and caring team.

NICU nurse

I’ve been coming to White Lodge my whole life, which is over 53 years. My first introduction was when it was a school that also provided specialist therapy. I clearly remember the times they fitted me with leg splints that helped me stand and bear my own weight. I was also given a lot of hydrotherapy, which made a huge difference.

But even more importantly, they helped me learn how to communicate and build my confidence. Without their incredible support, care, and friendship, I wouldn’t be the independent person I am today.

I’m proud of my disability, but it was the amazing team at White Lodge who gave me the strength and encouragement to grow and develop into the person I’ve become.

Jason Vaughan, Current service user and White Lodge Ambassador

22 years ago, White Lodge started my family’s journey into the world of neurodiversity when my eldest son was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, aged 6. It was a shock to the system as we had no history (that we knew of!) or experience, but we felt supported on that journey. He is now a successful adult, both in his career and his personal life, which could not make me any happier! My middle son also has a diagnosis now and diagnoses are popping up in my wider family too so we are very well versed in the world of neurodiversity since that White Lodge introduction all those years ago!

Sarah Allmond

Thank you so much for all the incredible support you've given so many families over the years. I've been lucky enough to share a few families with you, and they have spoken so highly of your support. Wishing you all the best of luck for the future. 

Vicki Tier

My daughter suffered a stroke at 6months old, we were referred to White Lodge Children's Therapy where she received the vital therapies she needed to help her learn and develop skills for her future. Every member of staff who worked with her were highly skilled and so caring. My daughter struggled in the beginning and the therapists worked immensely hard to encourage her to enjoy therapy, it turned to play for her and she started to enjoy the sessions. She made an amazing bond with each and every one of them.

She eventually attended nursery at White Lodge, where she continued her therapies, and without this intensive input, she would not be where she is today, thriving! Her strength was built through regular physio and occupational therapy, but it was only possible because she was determined to succeed, and that was a lesson taught to her by these amazing people on day one.

I find it hard to think about if we didn’t have the support of White Lodge Children’s Therapy back when our lives had been turned upside down. To take her to a specialist child therapy centre to give her the best chance to reach, crawl, stand, walk, and talk. They helped our family to see so many positives through the results of what regular input can do, and we will be forever grateful for everyone who was involved with her.

Alex Richards

Working for the children’s therapy team for 36 years as part of my administration role, you will not find a more dedicated and friendly team. This is a tremendous loss to the centre.

Sandra, former member of staff

Great visits and lovely to hear of the activities that had taken place.  You knew that the day would be busy and fun whatever was taking place as the staff team were so supportive.

Family member/parent /carer

My boy started therapy at White Lodge when he was around 8 months old. He had a traumatic birth, so an early intervention was very important for him to help him thrive and reach his milestones. He is 4 years old now and able to do many things we didn’t expect him to. Melanie is always ready to go above and beyond to do everything she can to help him.

Family member/parent/carer

Thank you to all the wonderful staff who assisted us at a very difficult time. The care and understanding shown to us was phenomenal.

Family member/parent/carer

Children's Therapy service has been a lifeline to many children and their families within the community, offering vital support and life-changing therapy over the 60 years + they have been at White Lodge. I've personally experienced the therapy service offered to my child, and the positive difference that it made. The team will be sorely missed, and we would like to wish them all the very best for the future.

White Lodge member of staff

A big THANK YOU to the incredible team at White Lodge for all the support you have given us. Your immense passion and dedication to helping every child achieve their goals truly shines through in everything you do. You have not only supported the children, but also their families and the staff in our setting during your visit here at Roslin. Your guidance, kindness, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our whole community. We wish you all the very best and hope you continue to support and inspire every child you meet on your ongoing journey. Your support will be deeply missed. Lots of love from the Roslin Nursery Team, Staines. 

Aradhana Makhijani

Over 40 years ago Lyne Cricket Club organised an attempt to get into the Guinness Book of Records by running a"longest ever bowlers run-up" from Lyne to The Oval. Surrey CC were very supportive and we achieved our goal, bowling the ball to one of their professionals before watching a Sunday game. We collected donations and were sponsored on behalf of White Lodge. Sadly the Guinness Record people disqualified our attempt for long forgotten reasons. We had a great day out though and it has been a pleasure to support WLC ever since. Best wishes from a long retired cricketer.

White Lodge supporter

We have always used the wonderful orthotics service with Andrew Tagg - who was always so kind to our daughter - thank you!  Big shout out to Children's paediatric consultant, Dr. Lisa Wall - who has been so kind and understanding over all the years!

Tammy Segala

My daughter would not be where she is today without the love and patience of the White Lodge team. She is my miracle, and you are such a big part of who she has become. 

Parent/carer

I can’t thank the White Lodge Children’s Therapy team enough for the support and care they gave my son and me from when he was about three months old. We are so fortunate to have had you in our lives!

At a time when I was trying to navigate my way in the ‘new to me’ world of disability, they gave me so much support, care, a reason to get out of the house and most importantly, hope for the future! We definitely wouldn’t be where we are now without you!

I’m so heartbroken that other families won’t have you in their corners going forward! Thank you! xx

Parent/carer

25 years ago, my parents discovered the children’s therapy team at White Lodge and little did they know it would become their lifeline. All the unanswered questions, all the questions on how to approach life with a child with a disability. Not just one [disability] but three. I’m profoundly deaf, visually impaired and have cerebral palsy head to toe. [My parents were] also grieving for the loss of their two boys; I’m a triplet. 

It was White Lodge that gave them a lifeline, support, guidance, and comfort. Now in my 20s, I see the difference White Lodge has made to their lives [as well as mine]. We can’t thank [White Lodge] enough because, without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Thank you for giving my parents the belief, hope, strength, and support they needed when they needed it most. I personally think that if it wasn’t for White Lodge, my parents would not have been able to push through the toughest times. You guys are and will always be apart of our journey. 

Olivia Gallagher, former service user

I'm so saddened to hear about the changeover in April. You guys at White Lodge have been so supportive and our safe space since (our child) was discharged from the hospital, so it's going to be such an unsettling change. 

Parent/carer

I’m so shocked to hear this news, and I’m so sorry. White Lodge was such a huge part of R’s journey; you played such an integral role in R’s development, and he wouldn’t be where he is today without you all. And you helped us so much as parents, more than any other service we have received support from. This is such a big mistake by the local authority.

Parent/carer

It’s such a shame, a brilliant place, and you ladies do such a fantastic job with our little ones and their families! Very sad news indeed.

Parent/carer

This is such sad and upsetting news to hear.

White Lodge has been invaluable for my family and me, and it saddens me that current and future parents will not get to experience the exceptional service and care White Lodge (therapy) gives.

Parent/carer

It’s just awful to think that families in the future won’t have access to the amazing support we had, especially when he was so small.

Parent/carer

I’m honestly heartbroken, for me it wasn’t just therapy, you all at White Lodge gave me hope for the future.

Parent/carer

My son wouldn’t be the man he is today without all the therapy services’ help and support provided from White Lodge in his early months and years of life, or all the support I received through the years from all the specialists who have worked together with him.

Parent/carer

This is so upsetting to hear, I am shocked to be honest.

Parent/carer

This is where C’s life started and with lots of love and kindness in her time there and we were very supported.

Parent/carer

That’s absolutely heartbreaking, we are certainly realising how lucky we were to have you all…White Lodge facilities made so much possible for R, I just hope they don’t go to waste. Honestly, the future for SEND kids right now is so scary; the good bits are slowly disappearing.

Parent/carer

White Lodge therapy has made a huge difference to my daughter. The therapy team gave me such reassurance and guidance. They are amazing. The work they do goes above and beyond, not only for the children but also for the parents. 

Parent/carer

You guys all made us smile. R did so well because he had you all.

Parent/carer

I couldn’t have gotten through the early years with G without your help and support, and the help of White Lodge and the therapy services they provided.

Parent/carer

I am absolutely heartbroken for your brilliant team and for all the kids who thrive under your care.

Parent/carer

You’ve helped him so much, and me too. It’s been like a sanctuary where I have felt supported and safe. 

Parent/carer

We benefitted enormously, as did (our child), from the amazing care and support you gave us all.

Parent/carer

It's heartbreaking knowing the therapy team at White Lodge won't get to see how my daughter gets on as she grows up. 

Thank you, therapy team, for everything you have done for all the children.

Rebecca, parent/carer

I'm really sorry this is how things are ending at White Lodge, we as a PSS team have really valued working with you all and all of your expertise. I know you will be deeply missed by children and their families.

Advisory Teacher for Physical Disability

I was first introduced to the Children’s Therapy service when I was two and a half years old, receiving physiotherapy at White Lodge. I still remember coming into reception, waiting in the family room, and being excited to see what the therapists would ask me to do that day.

The therapy I received from this service was completely life-changing for me and helped grow my confidence as someone living with cerebral palsy.

Years later, I was lucky enough to return to White Lodge to work there, and it was incredibly special to see the Children’s Therapy team from a different perspective, witnessing the life-changing work they do with other children and families.

The team not only support the child but also creates a safe and supportive environment for parents during what can often be a very challenging time.

Children’s Therapy has always been a hugely important part of White Lodge and has helped so many families begin their journey with the centre.

Love to you all, always

Maya, former service user and former staff member

A HUGE thank you to all the Children's Therapy staff at White Lodge for all the work you've done for disabled children and their families. 

It is quite unbelievable and so terribly sad that the Children's Therapy service at White Lodge is ending. The support that they offered my child (from 3 months old until they went on to school), and my family, was fantastic. We were helped through a time of great uncertainty and a time during which we had to come to terms with our child's disability. 

The Children's Therapy team put us on a supportive and positive track to dealing with everything. They were fantastic, and my child accessed physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech & language therapy, hydrotherapy and baby/toddler OT group sessions for approximately 4 years.  It was fantastic to have all this therapy delivered under one roof, where all the therapists knew each other, knew our child and the approach was totally joined up. 

Through our child's therapy sessions at White Lodge, we made friends with other parents with disabled children, and several years later, we are all still friends.  

The Children's Therapy team at White Lodge gave our child the best start in life and gave us as a family fantastic support - we are so grateful and thankful.  Thank you, thank you.   

Parent/carer

I had the privilege of working with the therapy team for a few years. They are such a passionate, inspirational and dedicated team; dedicated to providing what each child and family need, endlessly going over and above. Their clinical expertise and personal investment will be a huge loss to the children in the community who need them. 

Lindsay Carpenter-Oliver, former staff member

White Lodge has helped my daughter since she was very tiny. She was 3 months premature. Hazel, Anita and Dena have all massively not only helped my daughter, but also helped me with the reassurance and guidance on how to help her at home with her therapy. I'm truly heartbroken that my daughter wont get therapy from White Lodge anymore.

Rebecca, parent/carer

Having worked in the nursery for 27 years, I have gained so much knowledge from all aspects of each therapy. The loss will be so very much felt.    

The input of a therapist on a child's life can be life-changing.

During a nursery mini marathon, a boy who had been taught Makaton signing was given coins for his collection pot by his Speech and Language Therapist (SLT). He promptly signed “No! Paper". He wanted paper money, so a £5 note was put in the pot by his SLT!  

A young lady who is now 20 communicates with an AAC device using comprehensive sentences. She has literally been given a voice. The process for receiving this was started by her SLT when she was in nursery. She is just one example of how therapy can be life-changing.

One family said this to each person in the therapy and nursery team: "Thank you for being part of a team that has helped me access and enjoy life."

It is what the therapy team does that enables those with disabilities to access life, and for each to achieve their full potential. Literally enabling ability.

Thank you to all therapists past and present. For your dedication, impact and difference you have made to so very many over many years. White Lodge won't be the same without you, that's for sure. 

Kyla

White Lodge came into our lives when my son was about 1 year old. He started with physio, then OT, then Speech and Language. At 2 1/2 years old he joined the White Lodge Nursery. I can’t thank the White Lodge therapy teams enough for what the have done- not only for my son but for me too, I was told he would never walk- he is very wobbly but walking . A thank you just doesn’t seem enough

Laura Carroll

We are so eternally grateful for the love and support that we were given at White Lodge. Our daughter was lucky enough to begin her therapy at 4 months old, and has now hit milestones that at one point we thought she would never hit. We have so many amazing memories, but the two that stand out was watching her take her first aided steps with the push-along trolley, and then when she just started to walk unaided with ease, to the surprise of not just us, but to Melanie and Lizzie as well. The whole team will be greatly missed.

Kate Gavin

I was a young, out-of-control fox terrier living with a staff member. Energetic and boisterous in the extreme, I was a handful to my family at home.  At White Lodge, the children were so pleased to see me & I changed!  Something in me understood the need to be calm and quiet. I enjoyed their gentle attention both in the classroom or accompanying the rides around the garden.  I hope I gave them something to remember, just as I remembered them after each of my visits.

Bounce, canine volunteer

We were extremely fortunate to have White Lodge in our area. Our twins started at the centre in 1967 and we all benefited from the warmth, caring, reassurance and expertise of the physiotherapists and all the staff. It was a happy place as well as a centre of excellence which helped and nurtured so many children with Cerebral Palsy.

Two of the any memories I have of the centre were our lovely physiotherapist Barbara Gingell and the visit of the Duchess of Kent. The day our daughter went in her very best dress only to meet the Duchess in her vest and pants as she was doing her physio!

Family member/parent/carer