Wakefield nursing student brings Christmas to Pinderfields Hospital's children's ward

After a nine week university placement on the ward, Jess Tighe couldn’t believe how low the ward was running on toiletries, clothing and presents for the children to utilise during their stay.

Unsettled by the lack of resources, Jess was determined to make a difference and give back to the hospital for the hard work they do.

She issued a Facebook post calling out for donations of essential items, books, selection boxes, clothes and toys to give to the ward.

Jess said: “The ward is doing so well, I couldn’t believe how many patients there were and how little resources there were.

“They’re relying on donations, the play team that work there are currently using their own money to decorate for Christmas because the hospital's allowance doesn't cover it.

“It’s been so awful to see them struggling, I think it's always been like this but around Christmas time the ward struggles more - especially during the pandemic.

“They get charity donations from places, but they don't get enough for all children who come in and out every day - especially now.

“Because of Covid, the staff have had to shut down the playroom, there’s only a small selection of toys that have to be sanitised between uses - it’s such a long process.”

After just two days of issuing the Facebook status, donations from Jess’ Facebook friends and family came flooding in.

People from all over Wakefield and Barnsley have been dropping their donations off at Jess’ home in Crigglestone.

She also picked up the donations that people weren’t able to drop off, and got to work in her living room, putting them all into bags to give to the ward.

On Friday, Jess and her boyfriend, Matt, got to work delivering all the bags to the ward.

Jess said: “Within two weeks, donations came flooding in none stop. I expected just to fill a few carrier bags but we’ve got bin liners full of clothes.

“I ordered all the clothes according to size so I could donate them where they needed to be.

“There are so many other things too, like brand new presents and a baby bouncer, I didn’t expect so many people to contribute.

“I received the best response ever, I got bags and bags full of clothes, I want to thank all the people who have helped to give them some recognition."

The ward happily accepted everything and will be sending Jess a letter of thanks.

As Jess donated all the items on Friday, they needed to isolate for 72 hours, so today, the children can now use all the donations given by Jess and the people who supported her.