Festivities kick off across the Trust with Santa
Christmas festivities have landed at our Trust – with Santa’s grotto officially open and trees being lit up across our sites.
This year the grotto, supported by our Charity and created by sponsors adi Group Limited, will see hundreds of children in our care visiting Santa Claus for that magical moment.
Father Christmas and his elves will be meeting youngsters until 19 December at Waterfall House, in the Children’s Hospital.
And while they wait, hot chocolate and mince pies will be handed out by our catering team Sodexo.
Meanwhile, thanks to The Lounge Foundation and Persimmon Homes, every child visiting our hospital will receive a special gift.
Patient Aoifè Spellacy helped to officially open the grotto — her mum said: “Coming to hospital can be a scary situation for a child, but today when Aoifè was told Santa was here she couldn’t wait to see him.
“It was something to look forward to after her appointment.”
Chief Executive Matt Boazman added: “The festive season can be a really special time for our children, young people and their loved ones.
“But it can also be a very difficult one too, as many of our patients and families will be spending their Christmas here in hospital.
“We’re also delighted to have secured two present sponsors, the Lounge Foundation and Persimmon Homes, who have helped us to purchase and wrap all of this year’s presents making sure every child who visits us this December leaves with a gift from Santa.”
At our Women’s Hospital, the Christmas tree outside was lit up by little Ava and her mum Adalina Sacco, a member of staff.
The Salvation Army played classic carols to the crowd of more than 30 who were also treated to mince pies and hot chocolate.
And at the mental health inpatient facility Parkview Unit, the Christmas tree was lit up to festive tunes.
Trees have been supplied by Woods Farm in Shirley and Fees Trees in Barnt Green, whilst Selfridges has created the displays at our Children’s and Women’s sites.
