Little Heroes, the official charity for the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, has launched its biggest campaign yet –The Super Little Heroes Appeal – with a goal to raise £300,000.
The money raised will provide vital equipment that empowers the paediatric team to deliver faster diagnoses, safer treatments, and better care for sick children across the north.
Leading the online appeal are five well-known content creators, collectively known in this campaign as ‘The Fantastic Five’, who are stepping up to become superheroes for Little Heroes:
- Nathan Anthony – The Irish News columnist, best-selling author and creator of Bored of Lunch, with regular guest spots on This Morning.
- Emma Kearney – TikTok sensation and beauty creator known for viral tutorials and humorous family and parenting content.
- Ibe Sesay – Q Radio presenter celebrated for his vibrant shows and strong connection with listeners across Northern Ireland.
- Olivia McVeigh – Hair & beauty content creator and podcaster – recognised as one of BBC’s 100 Women in 2024.
- Anna Corry – Parenting and lifestyle creator sharing relatable content and trusted advice as Blossoming Birds.
Speaking about the campaign, Mary McCall, chief executive office of Little Heroes said: “Every day, children from throughout Northern Ireland face serious health challenges. They are the true heroes, and the medics at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children give everything to care for them.
“Now it’s our turn to do our bit to become superheroes for Little Heroes – by donating what you can to equip the paediatric team with the tools they need to save lives and improve outcomes."
The appeal will fund equipment including rapid infusers, gastro scopes, portable ultrasound devices, high-flow oxygen systems, a diagnostic neurophysiology kit and simulation tools for PICU. Each piece of equipment helps paediatricians diagnose faster, treat more effectively, and give children the best chance to recover.
“You don’t need a cape to be a superhero,” said Emma Kearney.
“Every donation counts and that’s why we are asking the local community to join us to support this important appeal and so that Little Heroes can get this equipment for the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. By as many people as possible donating together, we can make a real difference to the lives of sick children.” Little Heroes is the dedicated charity supporting the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, working to enhance the care, comfort, and experience of young patients and their families.
Formerly known as Helping Hand, the charity has been supporting the hospital since 1979, raising significant funds to provide life-saving medical equipment, improve hospital facilities, and support the well-being of the paediatric team, young patients and their families. In 2024, the charity rebranded as Little Heroes to better reflect its mission of championing the resilience and bravery of the children treated at the hospital.
While the name has changed, its commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young patients remains steadfast. Through generous community support, Little Heroes funds vital projects at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, such as:
- Purchasing cutting-edge medical equipment to enhance treatment, diagnosis, and care of sick children
- Funding education and training for the paediatric team on the diagnosis and care of childhood illness
- Transforming hospital spaces to create a more child-friendly environment
- Giving access to associated health services over and above what can be provided by the hospital
- Ensuring that even in the hospital, children can still experience the joy of childhood—through play, celebrations, and magical moments that make a real difference.
- Improving parent and staff facilities and wellbeing initiatives for the paediatric team, parents, siblings and for those who love and care for sick children Supporters can donate at www.littleheroesni.org