This Christmas, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) NHS Trust’s official charity Headlight is helping to make things brighter for those who need to spend time in hospital.
The charity is providing small gifts and treats to mental health patients, thanks to the generosity of those who have been fundraising throughout the year.
Tia Shortall, Headlight Fundraising Manager, said: “We know that Christmas can be a difficult time for some.
“No one wants to be away from home and in hospital at this time of year, so we try to make things a little easier for those who do find themselves on one of our inpatient wards.
“We provide small gifts and treats, like chocolates and decorations, to create a festive experience and ensure those in our hospitals have an opportunity to take part in celebrations if they feel able to.”
AWP has 41 inpatient wards across Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire, providing a range of care for people with a variety of mental health difficulties.
Headlight provides funding for projects to enhance the care and support provided by AWP throughout the year.
Joy, is a patient on one of the wards. She said: “It cheers us up a bit to have some nice nibbles and a few little treats like that. The nurses and staff are so good, we play games and sing carols and it makes it feel a bit nicer and a little bit more normal.”
Throughout 2019, staff, patients, their families and carers, and supporters have been raising money for Headlight by donating funds, organising events and taking on challenges.
Tia added: “I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has donated through our initiatives this year.
“All our staff care a lot about giving our patients a good Christmas and these decorations, treats and gifts make a huge difference to those who are experiencing a really challenging time.”