Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is thanking local people, community groups, schools and businesses for their continued generosity, while reminding supporters that financial donations to the Trust’s charity often have the greatest impact for patients and colleagues.
Throughout the year, the Trust receives kind offers of gifts, treats, toys, activity packs and other donations from generous individuals and organisations wanting to support patients and staff.
The Trust welcomes this support and is incredibly grateful for the kindness shown by local communities. However, to protect patients, visitors and colleagues, all gifts and donations have to follow national safety and infection prevention and control (IPC) requirements.
Financial donations made through Chesterfield Royal Hospital Trust Charity are particularly valuable because they can be directed to where they are needed most, helping the hospital provide equipment, improvements and extras that go beyond what is normally funded through NHS budgets.
Tracy Barker, Lead Nurse for Family Care, said:
"We are always amazed by the kindness and generosity shown by our local communities. Every gift, donation and fundraising effort is appreciated and means a great deal to our patients and colleagues.
"While we are grateful for gifts and donations, financial contributions to Chesterfield Royal Hospital Trust Charity are often the most helpful. They give us the flexibility to support patients and staff in the areas of greatest need and allow the charity to make the biggest possible difference across the hospital.
"Recently, we purchased a specialised cot with resuscitation aids for babies, which cost more than £25,000. We know this will make a huge difference to our little patients.
"Where people would like to donate items, we’d kindly ask that they work with us in advance. We have important responsibilities around infection prevention and control, patient safety, dignity and fairness, and these rules help us ensure donations can be shared safely and appropriately."
What can be accepted:
Donations to the Charity – these can be made online, in memory of loved ones or as gestures to thank colleagues and services
New, unopened and suitable toys – no toy guns or weapons
New books, colouring books and activities
New puzzles and games
New, unopened toiletries and wellbeing items
Vouchers for shops, including Hobbycraft
Unfortunately, homemade food, unsealed items and used items can no longer be accepted. To help manage donations safely and fairly, supporters are encouraged to contact the Trust before bringing items to the hospital.
The Trust is particularly encouraging individuals and organisations considering Christmas or other seasonal donations to explore supporting Chesterfield Royal Hospital Trust Charity. Charity donations help fund projects, equipment, environments and initiatives that enhance care for patients and improve experiences for colleagues across the hospital.
As part of the appeal, the Charity is inviting local businesses, schools, community groups and individuals to get involved in its popular FUNraising Days initiative. Businesses and individuals can use the Charity Hub shop area in the Trust’s Main Entrance in return for a small charge or a percentage of takings donated to the Charity.
Anyone interested in supporting the hospital, making a donation, taking part in FUNraising Days or discussing a gift donation is encouraged to contact the Charity Team.
Full details on how to donate, fundraise and support Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity can be found on the Trust website at How to donate to Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity.
Supporters can also contact the Charity Team on 01246 512058 or email crhft.charity@nhs.net for advice on the best way to help and to discuss current fundraising opportunities.