The DUP representative made the call during a debate in the House of Commons last week on Childhood Cancer care.

Speaking from London, Carla Lockhart said:

“I used the debate in the House of Commons to once again highlight the campaign being led by the Watson family, who we all know lost little Adam after such a valiant battle against this cruel disease. David and Sara have channelled so much time and energy into championing the needs of families faced with a childhood cancer diagnosis.

Key to their campaign is the delay in Government support following diagnosis. Currently that delay can be up to three months. Yet throughout that three month period, many parents have to reduce or give up work, travel to many appointments, make many purchase of equipment of clothing, all of which costs a lot of money. At an already difficult time, these families do not need the additional stress of financial worries.

We need the Government to issue payment of support immediately upon diagnosis. That would be transformational in terms of giving families the help they need, when they need it. I will continue to work alongside David and Sara on this matter and hope that the Government will step up and make the change soon.”