A number of charity initiatives are being run in NHS Forth Valley to help improve the experience of patients in local hospitals over the festive period and beyond.

Christmas Appeal 

Forth Valley Giving, the official charity of NHS Forth Valley, has launched a Christmas Appeal to help raise £16,000 to support local patients, including those who are lonely or more vulnerable, with Christmas gifts, activities and outings throughout the year.

Craig Holden, NHS Forth Valley’s Fundraising Manager, said: “We are asking people across Forth Valley to consider making a donation to our Christmas Appeal if they are able. Every donation, no matter how small, will be used to make life better for some of our most vulnerable patients this Christmas.”

Forth Valley Giving aims to improve the experience of local patients and their families and support them to live fuller and more enriched lives. None of the donations fund day to day core NHS services and instead are used to enhance local healthcare facilities and make them more comfortable as well as providing activities and trips to improve the experience of local patients.

To donate online, visit www.justgiving.com/forthvalleygiving or call 01324 673 650 and mention that your donation is for the 2024 Christmas Appeal.

Children’s Ward Gift Appeal

The Children’s Ward at Forth Valley Royal Hospital is also appealing for donations of new gifts for babies, children and young people to help bring some cheer to those who have to stay or visit hospital over the festive period.

For more information and to arrange delivery, please contact NHS Forth Valley Play Specialists Seonad or Lisa on 01324 567203. Please note the Children’s Ward is unable to accept used toys or gifts.

Christmas Food Appeal

KLSB is a local community group and through their food pantry in Stenhousemuir, they provide critical support to many local people who are struggling during these particularly tough times.

NHS Forth Valley and facilities partner Serco are asking staff and members of the public to donate canned foods, pasta, rice, UHT milk or any other cupboard items, or any toiletries. Collection points are situated at the main and staff entrances of Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

For more information on KLSB and how you can help, visit KLSB Community Group.