Get crafty at NHS charity’s Christmas wreath workshop

With Christmas just a few months away, it’s time to get into the festive spirit by taking part in the Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity’s wreath making workshop.

The charity has teamed up with experts at Floral Expressions, based in the main entrance at Rotherham Hospital, and sponsors the Rotherham Lions Club to host the yuletide event on 21 November 2023 from 5pm to 8pm at Dunelm’s Pausa Café, Rotherham.

Whether it’s a Christmas tradition for your family and friends or you’d like to try it for the first time, the guided workshop will be a fun evening out while giving you something beautiful and unique to display at home.

Rachael Dawes, Head of Fundraising, said: “Not only is our Christmas Wreath Making Workshop a chance to learn a new skill and create a beautiful, bespoke holiday decoration, it’s an opportunity to support your local NHS charity while having a great night out too. We’ll create a wonderfully festive atmosphere for you.

“We’d love to celebrate the build up to Christmas with you and can’t wait to see everyone’s wonderful wreaths. Space is limited, so we recommend you register early to avoid disappointment.”

Highlights of the event will include:

• Quality materials: all the materials, including professionally sourced fresh and fragrant greenery, foliage and wire will be provided by Floral Expressions. (Participants are encouraged to bring along their own secateurs or scissors and any additional decorations they wish to use.)
•  Refreshments: participants will be treated to a hot brew and cake!
• A festive raffle: participants can help us raise more money by taking part in a Christmas raffle.

The Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity raises money to fund the extra-special resources, equipment and projects which the Government cannot afford, enhancing the experience patients and their families have while receiving NHS care.

The charity has recently launched a major new fundraising campaign called Tiny Toes which aims to rise £150,000 to support the redevelopment of the Neonatal Unit at Rotherham Hospital.

The existing unit and its caring and compassionate staff are highly praised by families, but the facilities require upgrading to ensure their excellent standard of care can continue for generations to come. Crafters taking part in the Christmas Wreath Making Workshop can choose to fundraise for the appeal, helping the charity to reach its ambitious target.

The event costs £40 per person and is open to members of the public as well as staff from The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust. There are 30 places available.

The event is possible thanks to official sponsors from the Rotherham Lions Club New2U shop, which is based on Rawmarsh Hill, Parkgate.

Pete Machin, club secretary, said: “Christmas is always a great time of year for the Rotherham Lions, whether we’re taking our Santa sleigh around the neighbourhood or donating chocolate selection boxes to youngsters spending Christmas time at Rotherham Hospital. We feel proud that we’ll be spreading the festive cheer in a different way this year by sponsoring the charity’s Wreath Making Workshop.

“This is possible thank to everyone who has supported our New2U shop and hope everyone has a brilliant time crafting something wonderful to enjoy at Christmas.”

To secure your place, contact Suzanne Rutter or Rachael Dawes in the charity team on 01709 426821 or email [email protected] before 1 November.