Christmas cards and wrapping paper designed and made by patients will be on sale at a series of volunteer pop-up shops taking place across local hospitals this November.
The shops, run by hospital volunteers, will showcase festive items created by patients taking part in creative wellbeing activities during their stay in hospital, which have been supported by volunteers on the wards.
The profits from the shops will be re-invested into the volunteer charitable fund for future art projects for patients, improving their experience and wellbeing.
Get your cards and wrapping paper
The pop-up shops will take place on:
- Thursday 12 November, University Hospital of North Tees, main concourse, 1pm to 4pm
- Tuesday 17 November, University Hospital of Hartlepool, main entrance corridor, 10am to 1pm
- Monday 23 November, University Hospital of North Tees, main concourse, 1pm to 4pm
Thrilled
Lindsay Rutherford-Hoe, volunteer coordinator for University Hospitals Tees, said: “The Christmas cards and paper are lovely – they are so personal and unique and we’re thrilled that visitors, staff and patients will be able to buy them.
“Taking part in art sessions while in hospital helps people connect with others and provides a welcome and enjoyable experience during their hospital stay.
“The pop-up shops show the positive effect creative activities can have on patient wellbeing. I hope people like the cards and wrapping paper as much as we do.”
What our patients told us
Patients who took part spoke positively about the experience:
“Taking part in this activity reminded me of an art class I used to attend and even took me back to being at school.”
“I enjoyed the peace, chat and a cup of tea.”
“I enjoyed doing the designs as I like to draw and colour at home.”
“It is lovely to have a cup of tea and chat whilst we are colouring.”
“I felt a little bit reluctant to go to the room on the ward but I’m so glad I did. I really enjoyed meeting the other patients.”
To find out more about volunteering with us, visit our volunteer page.