Caring staff are bringing a little Christmas cheer to the In-patient Unit (IPU) by donning festive scrubs made by a host of volunteers.
Dedicated crafters poured many hours into making dozens of scrub tops and caps for the St Richard’s Hospice IPU Team.
The idea was spearheaded by hospice doctor Sarah Onions, as stringent infection control measures in place for the pandemic mean the hospice building cannot be decorated as usual.
“Each year we work to make Christmas at the hospice as homely and joyful as possible for those who are with us at this time,” said Dr Onions, whose daughter Milla helped make scrubs.
“Although we can’t celebrate Christmas in quite the same way this year, we are determined to make the festive season special for our patients.
“We hope our jolly scrub tops and caps will help bring a little Christmas spirit to the In-patient Unit!
“We would like to say a huge thank you to the amazing volunteers who have dedicated so much time to making festive scrubs. From donating to buy fabric, to pattern cutting and sewing – we are so grateful for your support.”
Volunteers from Worcestershire and beyond sewed 65 scrub tops and 12 caps from colourful, festive fabrics.
Six members of the Marvellous Malvern Makers group, and a seamstress from White Ladies Aston, were organised by hospice reception volunteer Debbie Holt.
Volunteers with the Marvellous Malvern Makers group have made and donated more than 8,000 items to healthcare organisations across the county during the pandemic. The group has also raised thousands for local charities by making and selling masks.
Debbie Holt and Dr Sarah Onions, with the scrub tops
Debbie said: “When St Richard’s contacted me to see if we could help, I knew that our ladies would love to make festive tops for such a wonderful cause, which is dear to many of our hearts.
“We bought new festive duvet covers out of our funds and managed to turn £94 into 42 lovely tops for the In-patient team. Our ladies truly are marvellous.”
Meanwhile, a volunteer group from Leamington in Warwickshire, including parents from Milverton Primary School and Princethorpe College, were coordinated by Dr Onions.
To find out more about St Richard’s Hospice, visit www.strichards.org.uk