Following the success of last year’s appeal, Airedale NHS Foundation Trust is calling out again for keen knitters and crafty crocheters to create and donate soft dolls for patients living with dementia.
The dolls will be used to support patients at Airedale by giving them something to hold to help ease their anxiety whilst in hospital.
Airedale’s Dementia and Dignity Champion, Pauline Swales, says:
“We have seen very distressed patients calm down as soon as they have been given a doll.
“Most of the patients are extremely appreciative of them and like to keep them close or cuddle and stroke them.
“They also help to give patients something to focus on in an often loud, confusing and busy environment.”
The soft dolls can be in whatever pattern/colour – and both female and male dolls (think GI Joe, Action Man, Zorro or even The Lone Ranger!) would be appreciated. Animals would be welcome too.
Please note that they would need to be newly created (not second hand) and have no attachments that could be pulled off and become a choking hazard (e.g. no eyes or buttons).
All donations would be gratefully received. To arrange a drop off, please email p.swales@nhs.net
