Staff in the outpatient clinics at King’s Mill Hospital have been working together throughout December to ensure that families in need receive a gift at Christmas time.

A Christmas Giving Tree, decorated with gift tags by pupils from Jacksdale Primary School, has generated hundreds of gifts for families and individuals with financial worries throughout Mansfield, Ashfield and the surrounding areas.

From toys, games, books, toiletries and edible treats, over 400 gifts were generously donated by kind-hearted hospital staff and members of the public.

Louise Morgan, Practice Development Matron in the outpatient department at the hospital, said: “The festive season can be a difficult time for people who are struggling with financial worries, but having a low income shouldn’t stop families from celebrating Christmas with joy.”

The idea for the Giving Tree began in early December when a staff member suggested clinic 3 as a gift collection point to assist people in need at Christmas time. From there donations from hospital staff quickly grew, and by 16 December the initiative became the most successful fundraising event the clinics have ever held.

Louise added: “The Giving Tree actually became more beautiful as it was undecorated. We hope these presents will remove some anxiety for people in need and give them a much brighter Christmas.”

The gifts were handed over to Tina Durrani, Professional Service Lead of Health Visiting and School Nursing (Mansfield locality), Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, during a special presentation on 18 December at Mansfield Community Hospital.

Tina, who gave out the gifts to local health visitors to distribute to families, said: “We were overwhelmed by the generosity and support of King’s Mill staff and the local community – we couldn’t actually believe the volume of presents that arrived. There are going to be some very happy families this Christmas.”