How we’re granting Christmas wishes with a long-term impact!

No child or young person dreams of spending Christmas in hospital. Yet, for many young patients at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, this is their reality. Thanks to the generosity of those supporting our Grant a Christmas Wish campaign, these young patients are not only finding joy during the festive season but benefiting from initiatives that bring smiles, comfort, and creativity throughout the year.

Each year, the local community rallies to support Nottingham’s hospitals by donating gifts. While this kindness is deeply appreciated, some gifts cannot be used due to infection control guidelines, dietary restrictions, or duplication of items. That’s where Grant a Christmas Wish steps in!

By donating funds instead of physical items, we can empower hospital staff and play specialists to select exactly what is needed, ensuring every donation is impactful well beyond the festive season.

We’ve been busy granting wishes…

Grant a Christmas Wish does more than just brighten Christmas morning. It helps the amazing staff at Nottingham Children’s Hospital provide an enriched environment for young patients all year round. This year, Grant a Christmas Wish has seen record engagement, with donations making a real difference for children and their families. Here are just a few highlights of wishes we have already granted:

• Animal Encounter visits: Six special animal encounter visits have been scheduled for young patients, with the first festive-themed visit happening this December. These monthly visits mean lots of children will benefit, offering them a magical escape from hospital life and the chance to bond with cuddly creatures, easing the stress of their stay.
• Replenishing consoles and interactive toys: Long-term patients face extended periods in hospital, making entertainment and creativity an important part of their well-being. Thanks to donations, we have been able to provide updated game consoles and games, as well as a range of interactive toys and activities for all age groups. “Having a variety of activities, toys, and games is hugely beneficial for the children’s development, ensures a variety of things to keep them occupied and that we have enough for everyone at the same time.” say staff on Ward D33. 
• Customising ward spaces: To help young patients in Children’s Intensive Care feel more at home, we’ve been able to provide arts and craft kits that allow children to personalise their ward space, giving them a sense of comfort and ownership during a long hospital stay.     
• Therapeutic play for burns and trauma patients: On the burns and plastics ward, where many children are bedbound or have limited mobility, Grant a Christmas Wish has supported the purchase of tablet stands, portable game consoles, DVDs and sensory items. These tools enable bedside play and make therapy sessions as engaging and meaningful as they can be.
• Bringing comfort and joy to the Children’s Oncology and Haematology Ward:
  We’ve provided a variety of age-appropriate items for patients aged 0-18, including bath toys, activity mats, book bundles, themed decorations for year-round celebrations, video games, and much more. Carefully selected by Play Specialists, these items brighten the ward’s playroom and environment, offering young patients a welcome escape from medical treatments.

How you can help...

If you’re inspired to give this Christmas, consider supporting Grant a Christmas Wish. Your donation will directly fund items and experiences that meet hospital guidelines, offering young patients not just festive cheer but long-term benefits throughout their treatment.

By donating, you’re not just giving a gift – you’re helping our hospital staff to provide positive experiences for Nottingham’s young patients and their families all year long.