Interview with the Health & Social Care Bursary Winner 2025

At Intact Insurance Channel Islands, we are committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen the health and wellbeing of our island community. Each year, our Health and Social Care Bursary recognises projects that make a meaningful difference to the lives of local families - and this year is no exception.

Earlier this month, we were delighted to announce Sara Hawker from the Guernsey Multi-Disciplinary Team Feeding Clinic as the winner of the 2025 Bursary. The clinic plays a vital role in helping children with complex feeding needs access the early, specialist support they require, while empowering families with practical guidance and reassurance. We caught up with Sara to find out what the award means to her and how the funding will help enhance this essential service.

How does it feel to have won this year’s Bursary?

Absolutely thrilled, it’s a huge recognition of the work we do for children with complex feeding needs.

Proud to represent the MDT, and be following this approach, this award validates for me the obvious passion HSC committee places on the importance of collaborative care.

Personally, it feels rewarding to know that MDT colleagues share a vision for family-centred feeding support, it makes such a difference to know our work here is being acknowledged.

How do you think the Bursary will support the development of the Guernsey Multi-Disciplinary Team Feeding Clinic?

Enables us to purchase specialist feeding, sensory and postural equipment for assessments and trials.

Gives families hands on experience with tools before committing to costly purchases.

Strengthens our ability to provide evidence based, practical recommendations during clinic sessions.

What are the next steps to bringing your plans to life?

Source and order priority equipment for sensory feeding and seating support.

Develop a structured equipment trial pathway within clinic appointments.

Train the MDT team on using new tools effectively to maximise impact for families.

How do you envisage the project evolving in the future?

Expanding clinic capacity to meet growing demand for early feeding intervention.

Building a sustainable equipment library for ongoing use and recycling.

Increasing professional development opportunities to share best practice across HSC.

What impact do you hope the clinic will have on families and the wider community?

Reduce stress and anxiety for parents by providing clear, practical solutions.

Improve nutritional outcomes and mealtime experiences for children with complex needs.

Foster a culture of early intervention, preventing long-term feeding and developmental issues.

Strengthen community confidence in local services by offering accessible, specialist support.

Sara’s plans reflect a clear commitment to strengthening early intervention and enhancing the support available to families navigating complex feeding challenges. Through investment in specialist equipment, improved pathways, and ongoing professional development, the bursary will help the clinic continue delivering essential, evidence-based care to those who need it most.

We’re proud to support this important work and look forward to seeing the positive impact it brings to children, families, and the wider Bailiwick community in the year ahead.