The Newcastle United Women squad visited children’s wards at the city’s hospitals last week, continuing to spread festive cheer in the community as part of the club’s ‘A Helping Hand at Christmas’ campaign.
Captain Demi Stokes led a group of teammates to the Freeman Hospital, with other members of the squad making an appearance at the Royal Victoria Infirmary to spend time with young patients and their families.
Organised in partnership with Newcastle Hospitals Charity, the visits also gave players a chance to meet NHS staff who will be working tirelessly throughout the festive season to care for the community close to St. James’ Park.
The team spent the afternoon signing autographs and posing for photos, sharing special moments with children on the wards. Speaking at the Great North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle United Women’s forward Emily Murphy commented: “Work that the staff do here is incredibly important for the community. If we can give a few hours of our time before Christmas to support them, we’re always proud to lend a helping hand.”
“It’s something I try to do as often as I can, and seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces is the biggest reward. It really brings you closer to the community. We met a young girl who told us she wants to play for the club one day, so we gave her a pair of Newcastle United socks and told her that’s step one. It was one of many highlights of the afternoon.”
Teri Bayliss, Director at Newcastle Hospitals Charity, added: “Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and fundraisers we are able to bring a small amount of joy to patients and their families over the festive season.
“It’s particularly difficult being in hospital at this time of year and visits like this make such a huge difference. Thank you to all the players and staff for coming to spend time with young patients and their carers, brightening their day and spreading some festive cheer.”
