Shoppers will help Hull’s hospital care for the city’s sickest babies and children after national retailer Home Bargains agreed to support the WISHH Charity in seven of its city stores.

WISHH collection tins will be placed at tills for donations and loose change, with every penny making a massive difference to the lives of children cared for by staff at Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital.

More than 49,000 babies, children and young people are treated at the Emergency Department following serious accidents, injuries or illnesses every year along with those who stay on wards and the Paediatric High Dependency Unit for conditions such as cancer or complex long-term conditions.

Home Bargains staff will take part in fundraising activities and challenges throughout the year to raise as much money as possible to brighten up children’s wards and departments as well as buy toys, games and equipment to make hospital stays more comfortable.

Junior Sister Helen Lyon, of the Paediatric High Dependency Ward said: “It is fantastic Home Bargains are supporting us.  Even a few pence donated can all add up and can be used to improve the experience for the child and their family through toys and games for distraction at what can be a distressing time.”

“The generosity of shoppers will help us buy equipment needed and create a better child-friendly environment.”

Mike McDonald, Hull Area Manager of Home Bargains said, “We are passionate about making a difference within the communities we serve by teaming up with the WISHH Charity to support children at Hull Hospitals.

“Our staff are glad to be taking part in extra activities to benefit sick children from the communities in which they live and work.”

If you or your work place would like to support WISHH Charity, please contact the team on 01482 622299 or email wishhcharity@hey.nhs.uk