GIRL Guides have taken part in a heartwarming initiative to provide bags of toiletries and care items to people in hospital.

The 7th Appleton Hill Cliffe Girl Guides have overwhelmed the Warrington and Halton Hospital Trust with their generosity this week when they delivered 20 comfort bags for patients and their families.

The bags include items such as soap, shampoo, face cloths, wipes, as well as pencils and notepads to pass the time.

These are a lifeline for relatives or carers of patients who have to stay overnight unexpectedly or are staying with loved ones who are palliative.

They can be extremely useful for patients who have no relatives or friends and are admitted suddenly to hospital.

Clare McCafferty, leader at 7th Appleton Hill Cliffe Girl Guides said: "The Comfort Bag Scheme started at Girlguiding Stockport and when one of our parents mentioned that the hospitals could benefit from them, we didn’t think twice about getting involved.

"The girls really enjoyed putting them together and we hope that the bags bring a little comfort to the recipients in their time of need."

Trish Richardson, head of patient experience said: "We are delighted that the Girl Guides in this area chose us as the recipients of their Comfort Bag Scheme, which will benefit our patients and their families, who have come into hospital with no time to prepare to bring anything with them.

"The girls have done a marvellous job and provided a lot of lovely toiletries that will provide comfort and we are very grateful to them.

"We would love for other units in the area to get involved to support the Comfort Bag Scheme, as these are essential items often overlooked in times of need."

If other units would like to get involved they can contact WHH.Communications@nhs.net for more information.