This year, the Charity set out on a mission to ensure as many areas of Nottingham’s hospitals benefitted from the Easter campaign as possible – including those often overlooked, such as Health Care of Older People wards.
Thanks to the incredible support received, the Charity was able to reach more patients than ever before – not only at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, but also across adult wards and areas caring for older people, including patients who couldn’t enjoy traditional chocolate treats due to dietary needs.
Donations of toys, games, craft items and books meant that everyone could feel included and cared for, regardless of their circumstances.
The donations, the highest ever received for an Easter campaign at Nottingham’s NHS hospitals, filled the Charity’s Hub at Queen’s Medical Centre. Many visitors, inspired by the display of Easter treats, returned with even more donations.
Contributions have continued to arrive even after Easter, meaning deliveries are ongoing to ensure as many areas of the hospitals as possible benefit.
Michelle Dorman, Senior Community Fundraising Manager at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this year’s appeal and proud to say we’ve enlisted the support of more individuals, businesses and organisations than ever before.
“It’s been amazing to see how inspired people were by our mission. Thanks to their support, we’ve been able to reach patients across the hospitals, making their time here that little bit brighter.”
To help distribute the treats, Nottingham Hospitals Charity enlisted the support of Nottingham Rugby, whose players visited Nottingham Children’s Hospital and spent time with young patients – including some excited young rugby fans.
The continued support from the local community has made a lasting impact and ensured Easter was special for patients of all ages.
Businesses who supported this year’s Easter campaign included: Agilitas, Click, David Lloyd West Bridgford, E-on, Handelsbanken, Jensten Insurance Brokers, Leonardo Hotel East Midlands Airport, Nottingham Rugby, Nottinghamshire Army Cadet Force, Nottingham Tennis Centre, Pelican Colts FC, Polypipe, Pure Gym Nottingham branches, Robert Ellis Estate Agents, Snap Fitness Ilkeston, The Shore Group and TSK Consulting.
TSK Consulting said: “This Easter, we’re proud to support Nottingham Hospitals Charity by donating Easter eggs to patients as a small gesture of comfort and joy. It’s our way of recognising the incredible care the hospital provides and bringing a little light to those spending Easter away from home.”
Jensten Insurance Brokers, who collected a large number of donations for the children’s wards, added: “It’s a small way to make them smile and show them they are not alone whilst spending their Easter in hospital.”
Highlighting the impact on older people, E-on Energy commented: “Supporting older people and those with dementia perfectly aligns with our mission. As an anchor brand in the city, we’re proud to contribute to the well-being of our community, and the hospital is at the heart of this.”
Robert Ellis Estate Agents added: “We know it can be difficult spending time away from loved ones, especially during holidays, so we hope the Easter treats can bring a little cheer.”
To find out how you can support Nottingham Hospitals Charity throughout the year, visit: www.nottinghamhospitalscharity.org.uk