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It shouldn't have to be this hard. 

Seeing your child face ongoing health challenges can be incredibly difficult. Missed school days, disrupted friendships, and hobbies put on hold can all take their toll. Pain, fatigue, and unpredictable symptoms can make daily life feel very different from their peers.

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Hospital visits, medications, and uncertainty around treatment can be exhausting - for your child, and for you as a parent. The mix of conflicting advice - ongoing worry - and the effort of keeping family life on track can feel overwhelming. And if your child is older, there may be the added challenge of balancing their growing independence with your instinct to protect them.

 

These situations are never easy, but you don't have to face them alone. With the right support - and a clear understanding of what’s driving your child’s symptoms, it is possible to move forward with greater stability, comfort, and confidence for you both.

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A different kind of support.

I specialise in working with children who experience gut and immune challenges, including inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis). My focus is on understanding what's driving their symptoms, calming inflammation, and supporting overall wellbeing — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

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This isn't about quick fixes or restrictive diets. It’s about creating a clear, evidence-based plan with practical steps that feel manageable for both your child and your family. Just as important is supporting you as a parent - offering guidance, reassurance, and tools to help you care for your child with greater confidence and clarity.

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Having walked this path with my own children, I understand how challenging it can be. I’ve also seen how, with the right support and information, families can move from uncertainty toward steadier ground and genuine progress.

“From the very first chat, she felt like a lifeline. We honestly don't know how we would have managed without her."

Lilith, parent of 11-year old Ulcerative Colitis

Green Plant

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How I Work with Children & Families

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Support that’s clear, compassionate, and centred around your child 

A calm, practical approach tailored to your family’s needs. Supporting your child’s health shouldn’t feel overwhelming, confusing, or lonely. My role is to help you find clarity, confidence, and a way forward that truly fits your family. Every child is different — and so is how we work together. I take time to get to know your child, your family, and what matters most to you. Children are always invited to be part of sessions in a way that feels natural and age-appropriate. Some like to chat and share, others prefer to listen in — both are welcome. Many families continue with just the parent present, and that works beautifully too.

I take the time to understand your child’s full health story 

​A joined-up look at symptoms, health history, food diary, and lifestyle patterns.  • Your initial consultation is a deep, joined-up look at your child’s health story, including:  • Current symptoms and health concerns  • Medical and family background  • Past treatments, medications, and test results  • Diet, lifestyle, and daily routines  • A 3-day food diary and naturopathic signs (face, tongue, nails)  • We explore all body systems — not just isolated symptoms — to understand patterns, triggers, and what may have been missed elsewhere.

A personalised plan that’s clear, realistic and achievable 

With clear next steps, supplement guidance, and trusted links. After the session, you'll receive a clear, written plan that includes: • A summary of our discussion • Practical, manageable steps tailored to your child’s needs • Supplement guidance (if applicable), with trusted links and discounts The plan evolves with your child — adapting to progress, setbacks, or new needs as they arise.

Helping You Understand the ‘Why’ 

Because when you understand what’s happening, you feel more confident supporting your child. Parents often tell me how valuable it is to finally understand the 'why' behind their child's symptoms. I take time to explain what’s happening in your child’s body and how each step of the plan supports healing — so you feel confident, informed, and better equipped to support them day to day. This isn’t just about following instructions — it’s about building your understanding, so you can feel more in control and positive about what’s ahead.

Testing only if it adds value – never just for the sake of it 

Always with your input, and your budget in mind. Sometimes, extra insight is helpful. If I recommend functional testing, I’ll always explain why — and offer alternative or lower-cost options where possible. You’ll be fully involved in each decision, and there’s never any pressure to proceed with testing.

Ongoing support that adapts with your child’s progress 

Follow-ups every 4 weeks, plus between-session check-ins and/or messaging with packages. Follow-ups typically take place every 4 weeks. These sessions help us review how things are going, adjust the plan, and build on your child’s progress. For families on a package, I also offer between-session messaging for questions, reassurance, or small tweaks. Things can change quickly with children — I want you to feel supported at every step.

All sessions are online – simple, calm, and flexible 

No rushing, no waiting rooms, no pressure. All consultations are held via video call, so your child can stay in the comfort of home. This makes sessions more accessible for busy families and helps children feel relaxed and secure — no waiting rooms, no stress, just focused support.

Sessions are calm, respectful and child-friendly 

A safe, encouraging space where your child feels heard and supported. These sessions aren’t like hospital appointments. They’re calm, collaborative, and focused on real-life progress. Some children love to share; others listen quietly. Either way, they’ll be respected, supported, and encouraged at their own pace. Most of all, I want every child to feel heard — and every parent to feel hopeful.

Let’s find a way forward – together 

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To see how this approach can work in practice - or you're a parent currently navigating IBD with your child - you can find more information here.
Hands Holding Heart
Happy Girl in Nature
If your child is living with ongoing health challenges and you'd like to explore whether functional nutrition could help, I offer a short introductory call at no cost.

It's a relaxed opportunity to talk through what's been happening, ask questions, and see whether this feels like the right next step for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Annette Hawes Limited. Registered in England and Wales, 16442417.  Registered office: 22 Hove Park Way, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 6PT, UK.

Not VAT registered. 

Member: Association of Naturopathic Practitioners (mANP). Registered with the General Naturopathic Council (rGNC).

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