5 ways to show the love to your local NHS this Valentine’s Day
Posted on: 4 Feb 2025
This February, why not show your love for the NHS and support Nottingham Hospitals Charity? Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a team player, or a creative fundraiser, there are so many ways to get involved. The money you raise stays local, directly supporting Nottingham's NHS hospitals. Plus, you can choose to fundraise for a specific ward, department, or area that’s close to your heart.
Here are five ways to make a difference this Valentine’s Day:
1. Rally your team for a fun challenge
Gather your colleagues and turn teambuilding into fundraising! Whether paddling down the River Trent in a dragon boat, scaling the side of Nottingham’s Queen’s Medical Centre, or enjoying a friendly round of golf, there’s an activity for everyone. Our fundraising team is here to support you from start to finish, from fundraising advice to cheering you on the day. Celebrate your success with a cheque presentation and join the growing list of businesses making a difference for Nottingham’s hospitals!
2. Take on a personal challenge
Prefer to go solo or involve friends and family? Take on a challenge just for you! From abseiling to skydiving, there’s something for every adventurer. Younger participants can join the fun too, with events like the Robin Run in Sherwood Pines and the Robin Hood Mini Marathon, perfect for a family day out, and our abseil open to those aged 13+. Our team is here to guide you through fundraising and answer any questions, so you can focus on smashing your goals and having fun.
Read more about James, who took on the 2024 Robin Hood Marathon in memory of his dad Brian.
3. Join your fellow NUH colleagues
If you’re an NUH colleague, why not join the growing number of colleagues taking on fundraising challenges? Many NUH staff participate to have fun with their teams and raise money for their own wards or departments. For example, Rachel, one of our Play Specialists, has taken part in and hosted events, to help fund transport for young burns patients to attend camps. She said:
“Nottingham Hospitals Charity has funded projects that have really benefitted our young patients, inspiring me to fundraise to give back. I’m especially passionate about raising money to send children to Burns Camps. These camps help young patients connect, share experiences, and build self-esteem. While camp costs are covered by the Family Burns Club charity, transport isn’t, and this is where Nottingham Hospitals Charity has stepped in to help.”
You can read her top tips for fundraising as a member of staff here.
4. Volunteer your time
Our volunteers are the heart of what we do, spreading the word about the charity and helping at events, in the Charity Hub, or greeting visitors at hospital entrances. Volunteering is a fantastic way to give back, meet new people, and make a real difference. Last year, volunteer Jackie was a finalist in the Team NUH Awards for her incredible efforts supporting Nottingham’s NHS hospitals.
5. Host your own fundraising event
Get creative and organise your own event! From bake sales and danceathons to Santa’s grottos, the possibilities are endless. Take inspiration from supporters like Anaiya, a young fundraiser who raised over £200 by selling loombands to support the Children’s Hospital at Christmas and Darren, a dedicated dad who stepped into the boots of Santa, to hold a grotto, raising funds for Ward E17 the ward his daughter Rebecca had her treatment for Stage 5 chronic kidney disease.
Whatever way you choose to show your love for the NHS this Valentine’s Day, know that your support makes a real difference to patients and staff at Nottingham’s hospitals. To get involved or find out more get touch or visit the pages below for more information.