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More families in need than ever before had gifts and smiles delivered to them this Christmas, thanks to the generosity of Giving Tree Appeal supporters.

 

The appeal - which is part of North West Anglia Hospitals' Charity - celebrated its 10^th anniversary supporting less advantaged children and youngsters by providing them with Christmas gifts.

 

Around 7,000 presents were donated and delivered to families across Peterborough, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire - making it the most successful year to date, exceeding the number of gifts from the previous appeal (which was 6,000).

Donations from staff, hospitals visitors, individuals and local businesses meant that children of all ages woke up to multiple gifts on Christmas morning.

 

The appeal started at Hinchingbrooke Hospital in 2015, with 50 presents being donated and delivered, founded by Trust Site Senior Manager Natalie Styles-Hudson. 

She said: “This year, we have been completely overwhelmed by the incredible support and generosity of our hospitals and local community. We have received a wonderful array of gifts through the Giving Tree tags, the Amazon wish list, and monetary donations, which have been particularly helpful in enabling us to purchase an increasing number of sensory toys.

 

“Donations have included books, dolls, train sets, games and craft kits, to name just a few. Perhaps the most unique gift of all was the sponsorship of a Shetland pony named Bennie, donated to a 16-year-old with additional needs living in a care home. 

“Thanks to this amazing support, the Christmas Giving Tree has been able to reach even further this year, supporting more children and families across our community.”

She added: “The team delivered gifts to less advantaged children and young people in schools, hostels, and domestic abuse refuges across Peterborough, Huntingdon, and Fenland. Every single person who has supported the appeal has helped to brighten Christmas for young people facing challenging circumstances."

Natalie added: “We have heard some real stories of hardship this year, with Christmas time being a real challenge for many. A huge thank you from everyone involved with the Appeal to all who have supported in some way.”

 

Pic cap: Founder of the Christmas Giving Tree Appeal, Natalie Styles-Hudson - with some of the  gifts donated at the recent North West Anglia Hospitals' Charity Carol Service at Peterborough Cathedral. Some of the many gifts donated during the 2025 appeal.