Transforming Christmas for NHS patients: Brighterway spreads festive cheer

For many of us, Christmas is a time for family, warmth, and celebration. But for nearly a thousand patients spending the festive season in hospital, it can be a lonely and difficult experience. That’s why, once again this year, Brighterway – the dedicated charity of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – is working to bring a little extra joy to patients, service users, and staff through its heartwarming Christmas campaign.

Bringing festive cheer to hospital wards

In partnership with specialist gift supplier Colleaguebox, Brighterway has created a beautifully designed festive tote bag, packed with thoughtful and uplifting surprises. Each gift bag is carefully curated to spread joy, offer comfort, and remind patients that they are cared for.

Inside, patients will find a personalised Christmas card, indulgent chocolates, and a luxury wash bag complete with handmade soaps, soothing lip balm, and a cosy pair of socks. To provide entertainment and relaxation, the bags also include word searches, puzzles, and colouring books – small touches that can make a big difference during what can otherwise be a difficult time.

These gifts are more than just presents. They are a way of showing kindness, compassion, and connection, ensuring patients feel valued and remembered during the festive period.

Adding sparkle across the Trust

Gift bags will begin making their way to wards during the first week of December, wrapped and ready for distribution. This ensures staff can easily share the festive magic with patients, creating moments of happiness and togetherness across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Why this campaign matters

For many patients, receiving a gift bag is a moment of light in what might otherwise be a challenging time. A simple pair of socks, a handwritten card, or a sweet treat can provide warmth, reassurance, and a sense of being cared for.

Phil Pride, Charity Manager at Brighterway, explains:
“We want to ensure our patients are the most important part of our Christmas celebration. These gifts are a small token to show we care and to bring a smile to faces across our community this Christmas.”

How you can help

This campaign wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of Brighterway’s supporters. With nearly a thousand patients spending Christmas in our hospitals, we’re aiming to raise £10,000 through the appeal – enough to make sure every single one of them receives a gift bag.

Every donation helps us create, pack, and deliver these festive bags, ensuring patients can experience a brighter Christmas.

By donating today, you’ll be helping to spread kindness, comfort, and festive cheer to people who need it most.

👉 Donate HERE.

Together, we can transform Christmas for NHS patients, creating special memories and moments of joy when they are needed most.