“Every moment was memorable” – South east London sickle cell community picnic

On Saturday 2 August, the sickle cell community service hosted a community picnic at Crystal Palace Park, and what a day it was!

The day was full of games, laughter, and fantastic food, bringing together families, young people, clinicians, mentors, and supporters to celebrate the strength and unity of the sickle cell community in south east London.

Planned together with patients, the picnic provided a welcoming space for participants to connect, share experiences and enjoy time with others. One attendee described it as “enjoyable social networking away from the clinical environment”, while another reflected it “boosted my mood”.

The day was also a great opportunity to raise awareness and share information about sickle cell, helping people to feel more informed and supported.

The event left a lasting impression, with attendees nothing that it and highlighting their favourite moments as “seeing everyone happy”, and the “great, positive vibe”.

This idea for the event and the planning of it were informed by people with lived experience voice and was a partnership between the NHS South East London, the Sickle Cell Society, South London Office of Specialised Services and the South East London Haemoglobinopathy Coordinating Centre.