Help bring festive cheer to local NHS patients this Christmas

As the festive season draws near, Health Stars, the charity of Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, is launching its annual Gift Appeal for patients undergoing mental health treatment in hospital over Christmas.

This year, many local patients will be spending Christmas in hospital, away from their loved ones. A simple present can bring comfort and happiness, reminding them they are not alone.

The Trust operates mental health inpatient wards for adults in Hull and East Yorkshire, as well as Inspire, a mental health inpatient unit for children and young people aged 12-17 across the region.

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In partnership with patients and service users, the Trust's nurses and hospital staff have compiled a 'wish list' of items that anyone can add to their Christmas shopping, including fluffy socks, face masks, hot chocolate, colouring pens and puzzle books.

Anita Green, Charity Manager at Health Stars, said: "Christmas is a time for giving, and we want to spread a little cheer to those who are spending Christmas in an inpatient setting. These small gestures can make a huge difference to a patient’s wellbeing as well as providing comfort and letting patients know they are not alone during what can be a challenging time."

Unwrapped gifts can be donated at various collection points across Hull and East Yorkshire. Alternatively, you can purchase directly from the appeal’s Amazon Wishlist or make a cash donation to the appeal which will be used to buy additional gifts.

How to get involved

Donate a small gift: From toiletries and cosy socks to books, puzzles, and other thoughtful items, click here for the shopping list.

Drop-off a gift: Gifts can be dropped off at the following locations between 18 November and 8 December 2024:

• Health Stars, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, Willerby Hill, HU106ED (only open Monday – Friday)

• Whitby Hospital Reception, Whitby, YO21 1DP

• Malton Hospital Reception, Middlecave Road, Malton,YO17 7NG

• East Riding Community Hospital Reception, Swinemoor Lane, Beverley, HU17 0FA

• Inspire, Walker Street, Hull, HU3 2HE

Monetary Donations: Those who prefer to donate financially can do so here.