Service users and staff at Newbus Grange, near Darlington, have shown their charitable spirit and raised more than £5,000 for good causes during 2016.
Hazel Southern, service manager at Newbus Grange, kick-started the fundraising when she bravely had her hair cut by 24 inches to donate to The Little Princess Trust, a charity that provides real hair wigs to children who have lost their own hair during cancer treatment. Colleagues supported her by making donations to support the charity’s work.
Sarah Llewellyn, a support worker at Newbus Grange, was so moved by the story of Hartlepool youngster Bradley Lowery, who has touched the hearts of the nation with his cancer battle and ‘bucket list’ of wishes, including breaking the world record for the number of Christmas cards received, she organised a fundraiser for his appeal.
Another great initiative saw staff at Newbus Grange, who were keen to help people who faced spending Christmas alone, donate the money they would have spent on Christmas cards for each other to Darlington Town Mission, a local charity aimed at enriching the lives of elderly people.
While in the Christmas spirit, the team also collected gifts to pack into shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, run by the Samaritan’s Purse.
Darlington Dogs Trust was another charity to benefit when staff members rallied together to raise funds to buy dog food for the Darlington shelter. A collection basket was located in Newbus Grange reception & staff filled it with dog food, treats, toys & blankets.
Many other fundraising events took place throughout the year to enable the hospital to make a real difference to good causes across the region.
Newbus Grange is an independent hospital providing specialist assessment and rehabilitation for men on the autistic spectrum with associated complex needs.
Hazel Southern, service manager at Newbus Grange said: “I’m very proud of the team here at Newbus Grange; they never let me down when it comes to supporting good causes and have some great ideas.
We had everything from sponsored runs, raffles, a garden party and cake sales. We even had a dress down day for National Fish and Chip day, we basically used any excuse to fundraise!
“There is a more serious side to it though and it is important that staff and service users are an integral part of the local community. This is a key part of that philosophy.”