School nurses from Sirona have collected toys which will be given out by Foodbanks in Bath and North East Somerset to families in need in the run-up to Christmas.
The toys have been collected from staff across Bath, Paulton and Keynsham.
Janet Padbury, School Nursing Administrator for Sirona, said: “In years past School Nurses have been given toys to hand out to children who might otherwise not have a Christmas gift. A chance conversation sparked an idea that this past tradition could be revived.
“We have had many new toys and some second-hand donations which are in excellent condition. We have been given puzzles and books; train sets and construction toys; dolls and family games.
“We have given them to Bath Foodbank who will distribute to Foodbanks across Bath and North East Somerset. Foodbanks rely on food donations to feed local people in crisis and this Christmas they hope to be able to give a toy as well.
“This is the first time Sirona School Nurses have linked with B&NES Foodbanks to do something special for Christmas.
“We would ask others to support us by donating new or good quality second-hand toys to your local Foodbank collection point. Do not gift-wrap. Foodbanks always welcome donations of non-perishable food but not toys after Christmas because of limited storage.”
Meanwhile Sirona’s Continuing Healthcare team donated food instead of the usual Secret Santa.
Karen Riddle, Dignity Champion within the team, said: “This year the team wanted to help local people who have less income than ourselves and to help bring a little Christmas Cheer.”
Each team member donated food to the value of £5 to Bath Foodbank.
Earlier this year Sirona, which provides community health and adult social services across Bath and North East Somerset, gave £12,000 to Bath Foodbank and Somer Valley Foodbank.
The social enterprise is a community interest company which means it returns a portion of its surplus to the community it serves in ways which support the health and wellbeing of local people.
Simon Knighton, Sirona’s Chairman said: “It is our intention to support a charity or community venture each year. This year we have chosen the Foodbank initiative as we recognise so many families are struggling to make ends meet.”
Janet Rowse, Sirona’s chief executive, added: “A range of professionals, including our own community staff, can give out the vouchers for emergency supplies of food from the Foodbanks.
“Many of those who have received help are those who also receive care and support from Sirona. In addition to the cash donation we are encouraging staff to give practical support to the Foodbank by either purchasing items to donate, collecting items from the supermarket or volunteering.”
