A group of 15 students aged 15-17 from schools in Keighley and Skipton recently took part in the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme and raised £827 for the children’s ward at Airedale Hospital. With the funds they raised, they bought and donated a range of items from the ward’s wish list, including colouring books and pens, books, toys, sensory items, a slide, and various other activities for the children to enjoy while they’re on the ward.
The children’s ward at Airedale provides care and treatment for children and young people up to the age of 18 with a wide range of health problems.
During the NCS programme, which lasted for two weeks, the students decided that they wanted to support Airedale’s children’s services.
A spokesperson from the group said:
“We chose to raise money for the children’s ward because we wanted to make the children happy during a hard time. We all agreed that it is a good cause and important for the community.
“We did a sponsored walk around the local area and a bake sale and asked friends and family to donate.”
Ruth Matthews, children’s play specialist at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“Thank you so much to the NCS students for their amazing work and for donating lots of lovely toys, games, and craft activities to our children’s unit. We really appreciate the generosity and support from our local community and the children on the unit will love playing with the toys.
“I was shocked at how quickly they raised such an incredible amount – what a great achievement!”
Image 1 – NCS group donating gift hampers to the children’s ward at Airedale Hospital
Image 2 – NCS students outside Airedale Hospital
