Why we do it

Elsie Rose Richards. Born on 11th April 2023. Elsie brought so much joy to the world. Daddy's first born, Mummy's last born (family complete). Elsie grew up surrounded by home bakes. Mixing bowls, wooden spoons, spatulas and baking tins were her main toys. Whilst baking from home, Elsie found her love for Mummy's dairy free (due to Elsies milk allergy) sticky toffee pudding - her absolute favourite!

30 weeks later - 8th November 2023 - the worst day of our lives. Elsie contracted RSV Bronchiolitis which turned Septic quickly. In 4 short days, her fragile body just couldn't battle any longer. Despite efforts from JR PICU team, Elsie peacefully passed away in the arms of her Mummy & Daddy, surrounded by her close family.

September 2024 - Elsies was launched!

What we do it for

In short, Elsies life could have been saved. We were strongly recommended to refer our case to a solicitor. Something we were reluctant to do, but something we knew we needed to do to make change! To do our bit to make sure another family didn't have to experience what we face every day.

We tried many times to create a charity in memory of Elsie, but was rejected. Mainly due to financial reasons. Elsies was created in September 2024, with 3 main goals:

to raise awareness for Sepsis in babies
to work with the NHS to make parents aware of their rights when faced with the situation we were
to raise funds to support parents who require a place to stay when their children are in hospital

We won't stop until our time is up.

How we do it

Elsies started as a single manned tent in Lambourn every Friday. We soon after branched out to multiple tents and market stalls in Swindon.

Shortly after, we have opened a kiosk within Swindon Town FC for their home fixtures. We then took to the road in our mobile sandwich vans, offering gourmet food options to workplaces and business across Swindon and Berkshire.

Most recently, we have opened a cafe/takeaway in Lambourn next to Membury Services.

We are on our way to creating a brand that will not only generate awareness for Sepsis in babies but help many families that require financial support during times of need.

Know the signs of sepsis in a child

If a child seems very unwell and you are worried, just ask: could it be sepsis?

UK Sepsis Trust guide. Any child who is breathing very fast, has a fit or convulsion, looks mottled, bluish or pale, has a rash that does not fade when you press it, is very lethargic or difficult to wake, or feels abnormally cold to touch might have sepsis: call 999 and ask, could it be sepsis? Any child under 5 who is not feeding, is vomiting repeatedly, or has not had a wee or wet nappy for 12 hours might have sepsis: if you are worried they are deteriorating call 111 or see your GP.

Guide from the UK Sepsis Trust. More at sepsistrust.org.

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