Community appeal continues to collect handmade Christmas gifts for BHRUT patients
A community appeal that has already brought thousands of handmade gifts to patients at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (BHRUT) is continuing, with organisers thanking supporters while asking for a final push to help ensure every patient receives a festive gift this Christmas.
Local community champion Jon Gildersleeve has been working alongside Deborah Edwards, Head of Patient Experience and Engagement Teams at BHRUT, throughout the spring and summer to encourage knitters and crocheters to create Christmas-themed gifts for patients spending the festive season in hospital.
The appeal has already received an overwhelming response, with volunteers donating beautifully handmade Christmas lap blankets, stockings, chocolate orange covers and Christmas tree decorations.
Deborah Edwards said:
“There are simply no words to fully express our gratitude to all you wonderful knitters.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your beautiful donations of Christmas lap blankets, Christmas stockings, chocolate orange covers and handmade Christmas tree decorations. Every single item has been lovingly created with such care, creativity and kindness.
“Your generosity will bring warmth, comfort, smiles and a little festive magic to so many of our patients at BHRUT this Christmas.
“Today we have been sorting the items into boxes in readiness to distribute to the wards nearer to Christmas. You will all very soon be receiving a thank you letter and photos will be shared on this group of the items being given to the patients and wards nearer to Christmas.
“Thank you for making such a difference and for reminding us of the incredible kindness that exists. We are truly grateful for each and every one of you.”
Despite the fantastic response, organisers say more donations are still urgently needed, particularly:
- Christmas Chocolate Orange Covers
- 9-inch Christmas Stockings
Volunteers are welcome to use their own patterns or the suggested knitting and crochet patterns, but all items should be made using Christmas colours.
To help protect vulnerable patients, donations should come from a smoke-free environment. Items from homes with pets are accepted provided they are clean, hygienic and free from pet hair. Any stuffed items should use soft polyester stuffing.
Completed donations must arrive no later than 1 October to allow enough time for sorting and distribution before Christmas.
Donations can be dropped off at the main reception desk at Queen’s Hospital, opposite Costa Coffee, or sent by post.
Packages should be clearly marked for the attention of:
Deborah Edwards
Head of Patient Experience
Queen’s Hospital
Rom Valley Way
Romford
Essex
RM7 0AG
Supporters are also asked to include their name and address inside the package so a thank you letter can be sent in recognition of their generosity.
With hundreds of patients expected to spend Christmas in hospital, organisers hope the local community will once again come together to help make the festive season a little brighter for those who need it most.
Photo credit and Snow Men Christmas Chocolate Orange covers made by Sue Mountstevens from Knitted from the heart for charity
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