Middleton nursery manager changes career to look after some of country's sickest children

Shannon Doyle

Things may have been quiet during lockdown for many of us, but the period persuaded a Middleton nursery school manager to finally take the plunge – and look after some of the country’s sickest children.

Seeing a toddler with heart difficulties in her charge at the kindergarten, Shannon Doyle longed to spend her life tending for those she felt needed it most – and give their parents a well-earned break.

Having re-assessed her life during the lull, Shannon has now joined charity Lagan’s Foundation, where she has begun shifts caring for an 11-year-old who needs to keep her ventilator on during the night, just to keep breathing.

“The little girl is registered blind, has fatty liver disease and breathing issues,” said Shannon.

“If her ventilator is not on properly or it leaks, this can cause real problems. My being there means that her parents can at least get a good night’s sleep, recharge and care for her again.”

Formed following the tragic death of her baby Lagan from a heart defect, founder Carren Bell’s team enter the homes of babies, children and young people with serious illness and offers their parents and/or guardians time to rest. Those periods also allow the children to befriend their Lagan’s carer and go out to places together. The carers act as advocates for parents and keep them informed of health and social care support, too.

Shannon, a former Cardinal Langley RC High School, and Holy Cross pupil with a BA Hons degree in Early Years Education, has had intensive training in everything from play therapy to dealing with epilepsy, during her first two months with Lagan’s.

Now working across Greater Manchester and Merseyside, she said: “I am doing the job I always wanted to do and feel as if I am making a difference. Lockdown resulted in fewer hours at the nursery, which meant I could reflect and think and say to myself, ‘now is the time’.”

Lagan’s reputation has resulted in councils seeking their support to care for troubled families. Their position as a charity means they can also support children who do not meet the requirements for state help, but have desperate needs.

Founder Carren added: “Not every disability is visible, quantifiable and measurable. Sometimes children fall through the cracks when it comes to state provision. I am sure there are families out there in that exact position.

“Having someone as skilled, experienced, and compassionate as Shannon to help you is a godsend. Please do not suffer in silence, instead contact us. Let Lagan’s bring that extra bit of love into your home.”

To donate to Lagan’s, please contact 01204 800300 email info@lagans.org.uk or visit:

• www.lagans.org.uk