We are delighted to have partnered with The Sun on their Joy To The Ward Christmas appeal this year to highlight the vital work that NHS charities do to help children and families through some of their hardest moments.
With the money raised being donated to NHS Charities Together, the appeal will enable us to continue working alongside NHS charities across the UK to provide NHS staff and patients, as well as local communities, with the extra support that they need.
One of the ways that we do this is by helping to make hospital feel less like hospital for young people and their families, which is especially important at times like Christmas when they would rather be at home with loved ones. This could be through providing accommodation to enable the parents of sick children to be closer to them, or specialist equipment and staff that make hospital stays easier through play and interaction.
Aston Villa footballer Tyrone Mings and TV Presenter Emma Willis are both backing the appeal.
Tyrone said:
“It’s heartbreaking that some children have to spend Christmas in hospital.
“But with your help our incredible NHS staff will be able to deliver specialist support, equipment and that little bit of joy that some children need this Christmas.”
Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity try to make Christmastime as special as possible for children in hospital, and this year have worked with patients and their families to create a nativity scene at the front of Birmingham Children’s Hospital, including a range of barnyard animals fashioned out of recycled materials.
Birmingham-born Emma said:
“As a local girl, Birmingham Children’s Hospital holds an incredibly special place in my heart.
“I’ve seen first hand the amazing work they do, the lengths they go to to care for and support children and their families throughout the year, and the extra mile they go during the festive season to make Christmas as special as possible for the whole family. Those children, and thousands more like them, will really appreciate your support.”
Show your support
As the NHS faces its toughest winter ever with large waiting lists, overwhelmed clinics, and the growing impact of winter pressures, all while still having to deal with Covid-19, this extra support has never been more important.
So please give the gift of hope this festive season and show children and young people in hospital that you will be there for them at Christmas and all year round by clicking the button below.
Photo Credit: The Sun
