Young patients at East Surrey Hospital were delighted to receive Christmas gifts from a local Tesco staff earlier this week (18 December).
The gifts, which were kindly donated by staff and customers, included: soft toys; dolls; Lego and puzzles for children of all ages.
Lisa Birch, community champion at Tesco Hookwood and her colleagues Poala Betancourt and Sam Burt, visited around 25 children who are on the ward.
Young patient, Ethan Morris, 12, from Caterham was delighted to receive a game of table football.
Lisa said: “Being part of the community we serve is really important to us especially at this time of year. It is the little things that make the biggest difference.”
Katie Hoad, Outwood Ward play leader and trainee health play specialist, said: “Play is important for all children and families; it could be through using a toy, being creative or using our mobiles to explore the world around us.
“The presents provide relief for young patients during times of illness, giving them and their families the opportunity to take part in play and recreation activities, during what is often an emotional time spent in hospital at this time of year.
“I love watching the reactions of the children when receiving their gifts and seeing the smiles on their face.”
L-R Ethan Morris, Poala Betancourt, Lisa Birch and Sam Burt
