Hundreds of dedicated hospital staff set to work over the Christmas period have received a special festive thank you. Almost 300 Christmas hampers have been distributed to teams who will be on duty on Christmas Day across the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust.
A Gesture of Gratitude for Holiday Sacrifice
The annual initiative, funded by the Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, saw hampers delivered to wards and units at Southend, Basildon, and Broomfield hospitals, as well as to smaller sites run by the Trust. Each hamper is filled with a selection of seasonal goodies designed to bring a little cheer, including mince pies, chocolates, biscuits, and other festive treats.
Dawn Scrafield, Chief Executive of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, expressed her deep appreciation for the staff's commitment. She acknowledged that choosing to work on Christmas Day represents a significant personal sacrifice. "We recognise that working on Christmas Day isn’t easy, especially when it means time away from loved ones," Scrafield said. "These hampers are our way of saying thank you. We hope they add a little festive brightness and remind colleagues just how much they are appreciated."
Charity Brings Festive Joy to Frontline Teams
The project highlights the ongoing support provided by the Trust's associated charity to bolster staff morale and wellbeing. Lucy Thomas-Clayton, Director of Charities and Voluntary Services at the Trust, emphasised the importance of recognising staff efforts year-round.
"We are really pleased to play our part in helping bring some Christmas joy to our amazing hospital staff," Thomas-Clayton stated. "Their efforts throughout the year make a real difference to our patients and colleagues every single day, and this is just one way we can show our thanks."
Widespread Appreciation Across the Region
The gesture reaches staff serving communities across a wide area of Essex, including locations such as:
- Braintree and Chelmsford
- Harlow and Loughton
- Maldon and Castle Point
- Rochford, Southend, and Thurrock
- Basildon and Brentwood
This annual delivery of Christmas hampers has become a cherished tradition, symbolising the Trust's gratitude towards the healthcare professionals who ensure vital hospital services continue uninterrupted during the holidays. It serves as a tangible reminder that their dedication, often involving time away from family, is valued and seen.
