Why Teddy Bears are important (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Why Teddy Bears are important

11:28am Friday 15th February 2008 in News

Teddy bears are waiting in the Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) at Salisbury District Hospital to be given to children who come into A&E for treatment.

Freemasons in Wiltshire have given the teddy bears to the hospital for staff to give to children or patients at their discretion. Giving a teddy bear to anyone who is distressed while in hospital will enable the medical staff to carry on with their vital work.

The teddies will be used in various ways, for the child or patient to cuddle as a reward for being brave and for staff to demonstrate what they are going to do. The teddies also act as a distraction and can provide reassurance for the child which helps, parents, guardians and siblings.

Francis Wakem, Provincial Grand Master for the Masonic Province of Wiltshire said: "Teddies for Loving Care are being given to Salisbury District Hospital A & E Department as well as The Great Western Hospital A&E in Swindon and the Wiltshire Air Ambulance. It is part of our increasing involvement within many parts of the community. "

Rosie Grier, Sister in the Accident and Emergency Department at Salisbury District Hospital said: "We would like to thank the Wiltshire Freemasons for their generosity. The teddy bears have really made an impact here and its lovely to see the boys and girls eyes light up when they know they are getting a teddy bear to cuddle and keep. Cuddly toys relax children which makes it easier for us to care and treat them when they come into A&E."