This Christmas, people from across the Black Country will spend time in our care, away from their loved ones.

To help spread the magic of Christmas across our wards, we are launching a Presents for Patients appeal. We want to show our patients that Christmas is all around and enable them to enjoy the festivities, presents and all.

Could you spare a little to help us provide a gift to every patient in our care over the festive period?

Every penny donated will go towards buying our patients gifts they can enjoy eating, wearing, or using including food hampers, warm winter clothes, memory games, activity books, wash kits and more. We can guarantee that for every present and donation received, a patient smile will be given in return.

Presents for Patients is about more than the act of giving a gift, it's about showing a person you've never met that somebody cares. If you decide to make a donation, don't forget to gift aid your donation, which means that we can claim an extra 25p for every £1 you donate and it won't cost you any extra. Help us raise money by running your own fundraising event

If you, your organisation or school would like to do a random act of kindness this Christmas or perhaps you or somebody you know has been supported by BCHFT and you would like to give something back, then link into our campaign and set-up your own fundraising event or activity.

Stuck for festive fundraising ideas? Why not host a mince pie and mulled wine party for family and friends, hold a Christmas auction at your local community centre or do a Santa run in your local park. There are lots of ideas online or get in touch with us and we would be happy to provide some inspiration. For more information about our charity, how you can help us and more check out our website at: www.blackcountryhealthcare.nhs.uk/support-our-charity or email us at bchft.brighterlives@nhs.net.

However you choose to support us, we'd like to thank you for thinking of our patients and taking the time to help us spread the magic of Christmas, especially during these trying times!