Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust has launched its 2025 Christmas Toy Appeal, inviting local communities to bring festive cheer to young patients spending the holidays in hospital. This year, the appeal has partnered with Lewisham Shopping Centre, helping to raise awareness and donations across the local area.
Biskers, the Trust’s friendly new charity mascot, has officially opened the appeal. Children receiving care at University Hospital Lewisham (UHL) and Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) will benefit from toys and gifts, making their time in hospital a little brighter over the festive season.
Robert Cole, Head of Nursing for Children and Young People, said: “It’s always wonderful to see the generosity people show towards our younger patients at this time of year. Every child in hospital deserves a little festive magic and our local communities really take us to their hearts. We see the difference it makes and anything you can spare is sincerely appreciated.”
Donations are welcomed for children aged 0-16 and should be new and in their original packaging. Recommended gifts include baby toys, educational toys, arts and crafts sets, board games, sensory items, and children’s books. Donations can be dropped off at the main receptions of UHL and QEH from 10am to 3pm daily until 22 December, or at the ‘Giving Box’ in Central Square at Lewisham Shopping Centre. Gifts should not be wrapped, and for infection prevention, cuddly toys cannot be accepted. Contributions can also be made online via the LGT Charity website, with all funds ring-fenced for the toy appeal.
Margarita Vidiella, Head of Charity and Volunteers, added: “We’re excited to open our 2025 Christmas Toy Appeal, the perfect way for people to spread festive joy and show support for our young patients. Your kindness will help make Christmas in hospital a little less challenging for children and families. We’re thrilled to be the charity partner for Lewisham Shopping Centre this year – visit us there with Biskers to find out more and get some photos!”
Paul Redden, Centre Director at Lewisham Shopping Centre, said: “The festive season is about community and togetherness. Supporting University Hospital Lewisham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital this Christmas allows us to bring joy to those who need it most. We can’t wait to see all the generous donations and raise awareness for this important cause.”
The Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust Charity supports projects that go beyond standard NHS care, funding initiatives such as breast pumps for neonatal wards, toys and sensory items for young patients, physiotherapy equipment, and improvements to hospital waiting areas.
For more information or to donate to the appeal, contact the charity team at lg.charity@nhs.net
