Worthing Hospital appeal for childrens' ward

Staff at Worthing Hospital are appealing for people to consider buying an extra Christmas present this year to donate to its children's wards.

Head of charity operations, Lesley-Anne Lloyd, said: "We are in desperate need of some items for the children as our NHS budget is obviously eaten up with equipment costs.

"We don't have any available funds to buy the nice things that make the children's stay in hospital less stressful for them and their families.

"We are appealing to the community to help make Christmas a bit more cheerful for the children and young people in our care over the festive period.

"We hope that Herald readers can help us spread a little Christmas cheer by donating a present."

Wish list

On the hospital's present wish-list for Beach and Barn wards are traditional things such as colouring books, felt tip pens, board games, stickers, Meccano, Bop It, DVDs, musical toys, playing cards, dolls, cars and puzzle books.

Gifts for older children can include Xbox and Wii games.

These items will be wrapped up by the nurses and given to children who are on the wards at Christmas.

Staff are also appealing for a few other items to make the wards a more pleasant environment for children throughout the year.

These include a pool table, canvas pictures, a radio, a PlayStation 2 or 3, a TV and a portable DVD player.

Making a difference

Rebecca C'Ailceta, paediatric matron for Beach and Barn wards, said: "Being in hospital over Christmas can be miserable and anything we can do to make a difference is very important.

"For some children who have ongoing illnesses, such as respiratory problems, there is a possibility they could end up in hospital over the Christmas period.

"Even though we try to get every child home on Christmas Day even just for a few hours, there will still be time over the festive period when they need hospital treatment.

"A present at the end of their beds will really lift their spirits. We are grateful for the ongoing support we receive from the community, especially at Christmas time."

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