Christmas toy donations will put smile on foster children’s faces

Children in foster care will have a very happy Christmas this year thanks to the generosity of staff from businesses across Bury borough.

Woodcocks, Howarth and Nuttall (WHN Solicitors), of Manchester Road, Bury; flooring company James Halstead PLC, of Hollinhurst Road, Radcliffe; and patients and healthcare staff from the Wave Suite at Radcliffe Medical Practice and at Unsworth Medical Practice have all spread some Christmas cheer by holding a toy drive to collect a gift to help make a difference and put a smile on a youngster’s face this festive season. A private donation of a 10ft trampoline has also been made.

The huge bundle of toys will be presented by the man of the season himself, Father Christmas, at Foster for Bury’s annual Christmas party for looked after children. The children will also be treated to festive meal with all the trimmings, with a children’s entertainer and disco.

Karen Dolton, executive director of children’s services at Bury Council, said: “We understand that this time of year is a challenge for everyone and many have little to spare. So we’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to all the generous employees of companies who have taken the time to think about vulnerable children in Bury this festive season.”

Katharine Marshall, Head of Family at WHN Solicitors, said: “We are absolutely delighted to support Foster With Bury this year. We wish everybody a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

Irene Abbott, Practice Manager at Radcliffe Medical Centre, said: “At this time of year it’s good to support and put a smile on the faces of children in our community who may not have had the best start in life. Thank you to our patients and staff who gave so generously.”

Gordon Oliver, Director of James Halstead PLC, said: “We, the directors and staff, are happy to support a worthy, local charity especially if it helps to bring some happiness into young children’s' lives over the festive period.”

Dawn Newall, Deputy Practice Manager at Unsworth Medical Practice, said: “We wanted to make sure that nobody went without and that all the kids got something lovely for Christmas.”

Anyone who thinks they have the relevant skills and experience to be able to look after fostered children, are over the age of 21, enjoy a challenge and have a spare room can find out more at www.fosterwithbury.co.uk or call 0800 9555 311.

ENDS

Press release issued: 2 December 2019.

Picture: Foster With Bury’s Ambassadors, who are all foster carers themselves, helped wrapped gifts for the children’s Christmas party.