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Christmas wishlist to make a poorly child smile

Published on 5 November 2020

Could you buy an extra gift for a child in hospital this Christmas?

The Friends of the William Harvey Hospital have added dozens of gift ideas to an online wishlist, with prices starting at just £2.99.

And organisers are keen to encourage people to consider older children and teenagers who will be treated in the hospital’s Padua ward this festive season, with items including face masks, beauty treats and computer games on the list alongside more traditional toys.

Jill Barringer, Friends manager, said restrictions because of the coronavirus pandemic meant the ward needed more items than usual.

She said: “To help keep the children and staff safe, many of the toys and craft supplies can only be used once if it isn’t possible to completely sanitise them afterwards.

“This means we need a constant supply of items to make sure there is always something to entertain the children and young people while they are in hospital.

“We know times are tough for many people at the moment but we would be hugely grateful if anyone felt able to add an extra gift to their list this year.”

Items on the wishlist include paint brushes and other craft supplies such as artificial leaves and paint-your-own kits.

There are also glitter tattoos, a play mat, board games, a night light, educational toys, and electronics such as a digital target for Nerf guns and games for various consoles.

The most expensive item is a Samsung tablet at £199, followed by a magnet building block set at £69.99. Paint brushes are the cheapest at £2.99, followed by skincare face masks at £4.99.

Ailish O’Hara, hospital play specialist at the William Harvey, said the gifts would make a real difference to their young patients.

She said: “No one likes being in hospital but it can be particularly frightening and confusing for children and young people.

“Having a supply of toys to play with or items such as nail polish or face masks are a great distraction and can help with recovery by reminding them of the things they enjoy doing outside hospital.”

To buy an item from the list, visit https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/37GKIU0KWSGGP?ref_=wl_share

It will be delivered straight to the hospital for the children to use.

For more information on the Friends of the William Harvey and how to support their work, visit https://www.friendsofthewilliamharveyhospital.co.uk/ or find them on Facebook.