Children's nurses in Hull are asking kind-hearted donors to swap chocolate eggs for arts and crafts this Easter in a special charity appeal.

Traditionally the children’s wards at Hull Royal Infirmary receive kind offers of chocolate treats for youngsters spending time in hospital. However, Sister Anne Dalby on the Woodland Ward, said “Across the children’s wards at Hull Hospitals we look after children and young people with complex medical needs, special dietary requirements, eating disorders and babies and toddlers with specialist health conditions. If kind hearted members of our community are wanting to help us spread the magic of Easter, funds can be donated to WISHH instead of delivering chocolates, to enable the generosity to go further and wider.

We worked alongside WISHH to do this last year, and they teamed up with our play specialists and nursing staff to buy arts and craft materials, activities, toys, games books, distraction and sensory items as well as baby toys for the wards, which could be enjoyed by many more children over weeks and months from the funds donated. The children had such fun making Easter Bonnets, crafting cards and Easter themed items and messages were the delivered by staff to older patients at our hospitals delivering joy across the wards.”

Lisa Whitton, WISHH Charity Manager said, “We love to be able to bring a bit of sunshine to children spending time in hospital. We have received calls from members of the public and community groups, asking how they can support children this Easter. Working with the staff on our children’s wards, we know we can benefit so many more young people by using funds raised through WISHH Easter donations to purchase items that will keep youngsters occupied and entertained whilst getting creative.”

Funds raised will enable us to purchase gifts for children of all ages from babies, toddlers, primary and secondary aged young people who will be staying on our wards over the Easter holiday period. Such support will also make a difference to patients being looked after in the Children's Emergency Department, Eye Hospital, Anlaby Suite and other specialist areas. Any additional funds will be used to support patients across our hospitals throughout the year.

There are plenty of ways in which individuals, businesses, schools and community groups can get involved and raise money to generate some Easter- themed cheer. Fundraising ideas include taking part in bunny hops, crafting, baking, donning Easter attire, and running Easter themed fundraisers in schools and workplaces. Contact us if you'd like one of our fundraising packs - this includes ideas, posters and everything you'll need to get started! You can get in touch with Lisa Whitton or Abby Wardill on 01482 622299 or via email hyp-tr.hellowishh@nhs.net

Donations can also be made via cheque, made payable to WISHH Charity, and posted to WISHH Charity - Easter Appeal, First Floor Administration Block, Castle Hill Hospital, Castle Road, Cottingham, HU16 5JQ. Please write Easter Appeal on the back of the cheque and include a covering letter.

We cant wait to see what eggsiting things our eggstravaganza has in store! We hope you all have a truly cracking time and that's no yolk. Ears to a fantastic Easter!

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