Staff at St Richard’s, Worthing and Southlands hospitals got into the festive mood last week raising money for their local hospitals.
Kerry Brunnen, play therapist for the children’s ward at St Richard’s Hospital said: “Although nursing staff do their very best to make this time of year as warm and welcoming as possible, hospital is the last place anyone wants to be over Christmas. Children just want to be at home opening presents with their family. We appreciate a donation of any sum which could help us buy our youngest patients a gift to really lift their spirits.”
Love Your Hospital has placed a Santa’s sleigh outside the Spice of Life restaurant in St Richard’s Hospital and the Penguin Foyer at Worthing Hospital for people who want to donate a present for a patient. Those interested in supporting the appeal should get in touch with the charity office for guidance on appropriate gifts to buy.
Frances Usher-Smith, Clinical Matron, said: “Many of our older patients are also living with a dementia and a visit to hospital can be a challenging experience. A donation to our Christmas Gift Appeal will help us to buy presents and make Christmas for these patients more pleasant.
Love Your Hospital is also asking local companies to get involved by holding a ‘festive fashion day’ for staff to help raise funds on Wednesday 19th December.
Amanda Tucker, head of the charity, said: “Every year, we’re humbled by the support of the local community and really hope everyone will get behind our mission to give patients staying in hospital over the festive period the gift of happiness this Christmas. We also encourage all to take part in our Festive Fashion Day too. It’s a really fun way to come together and support our local hospitals at this very special time of year.”