St George’s Hospital Charity has launched its Toy Appeal for donations of unused toys to bring comfort and joy to children who are staying in hospital.

The Toy Appeal aims to provide children who are being treated at St George’s Hospital in Tooting with a gift on their birthday, Christmas, or any other celebration to make their stay that bit easier.

Not only can toys, activities, materials and equipment help children to express themselves and have some fun, they can also provide preparation and distraction techniques and multi-sensory experiences to help relieve any anxieties and misconceptions. They are also helpful in reliving boredom and benefit recovery, recuperation and rehabilitation.

St George’s Hospital plays a key role in the lives of young people - treating around 34,000 children a year means it’s always an incredibly busy time.

The charity, whose vision is to ‘enhance the patient experience’, has created an Amazon wish list that is simple to use and has suggestions ranging from teddy bears, Playdoh and dolls to headphones, PS3 games and gift vouchers for teenage patients. Those wishing to donate can simply click on to the item they would like to purchase and it will be donated to the charity and ready to give out to children all year round.

Noel Cramer, Director of Fundraising at St. George's Hospital Charity, said: “Being in hospital at is tough for everyone, but it is especially hard for children. That’s why we’ve launched the Toy Appeal. Last year we were overwhelmed by the generosity of our supporters, and we’re hoping for the same this year.”

The wishlist can be found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/registry/wishlist/1EVTSC3O76LV8/ref=cm_wl_sortbar_o_page_1?sort=universal-price&view=null 

Gifts can also be dropped off to the charity’s fundraising office in Grosvenor Wing, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.