Queen Mary’s Hospital for Children at St Helier Hospital is requesting new toy and book donations to give out on Christmas Day to all its child patients.

Lorna Bramwells, head of nursing for paediatrics and neonates, said: “Our young patients are away from familiar faces and home comforts, and may have nothing to open on Christmas morning.

“You can help to ensure that a child has a gift to open by sending in new toys or books for children aged between 0–16years old.

“Whether you would like to donate just one gift or more, we would really appreciate any donations we receive, no matter how big or small.

“Toys can often be comforting, a distraction, fun to play with, a way to relieve boredom and motivation for recovery and rehabilitation.

“We also recognise that some toys can help some children to relieve any anxieties that they may face regarding their stay away from home.”

The hospital can’t accept second hand toys or books due to infection control and health and safety guidelines.

Donations can be dropped at Queen Marys Hospital for Children’s Outpatient Department at St Helier Hospital between 9am – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact Play Specialist, Amanda Laughton on 020 8296 2000 extension 8760.

What the children like to play with:

• board games/puzzles

• dolls/action figures

• soft toys

• CD players/CDs

• developmental toys such as stacking blocks

• arts and crafts such as paints and Playdough

• sensory toys such as Bop It and fidget toys.