‘That’s entertainment’ - Scouts bag gifts worth £700 for children’s hospital | News

A local scout group are helping to keep young patients at Queen Mary’s Hospital for Children entertained during a hospital stay, after they donated a brand new Xbox 360, a television, games, gifts and books to the hospital.

The money, raised by the 3rd Carshalton Scout Group by packing bags for shoppers in local supermarkets, was also used to recruit a very special teddy bear who helps to keep children reassured and preoccupied during medical assessments, such as blood tests.

Named Bob the Bear by the scout group, the teddy has his very own intravenous pouch (so that patients can see how blood samples are taken) and can have his temperature read through his ear or mouth – procedures that many of the children in Queen Mary’s will undergo too.

Amanda Laughton, Children’s Play Specialist in the hospital, said: “We are so grateful for all of the scouts’ hard work, and would like to thank all of the generous shoppers who donated to this great cause.

“We know that coming into hospital can be a bit boring and sometimes worrying for young children and teenagers, so everything that can help to keep our patients entertained and distracted is a fantastic boost.

“We are also delighted with our latest recruit, Bob the Bear – we’re looking forward to introducing him to lots of our patients, and we’re sure he’ll help them feel that little bit better during their stay or their visit with us.”

Donations such as the one made by the 3rd Carshalton Scout Group can make a big difference to patients and are always greatly appreciated by the hospitals. Our website has more information on how to make a donation to your local hospital.