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Pictured: Katie Jenks — Operational Lead, Megan Price — Senior Mental Health Practitioner and Jenny Richardson — Assistant EMHP.

A local mental health team has delivered more than 180 Christmas presents to children and young people in need across South Worcestershire.

The South Worcestershire Wellbeing and Emotional Support Team (WEST) from Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust recently launched an appeal for children who might not receive a gift this Christmas.

The team thoughtfully created a wish list of presents for children and young people in the south of the county at risk of poverty and deprivation – in a bid to ensure no child goes without a present this Christmas.

"The festive period should be filled with joy and excitement, but we 

know this isn’t the reality for many children and families facing poverty this Christmas”, explains Katie Jenks, Acting Operational Lead for WEST in South Worcestershire.

“We’re delighted that we have received even more donations this year. Meaning more children will have a present to open on Christmas day.

“We’re so grateful to our colleagues, local businesses, and members of the public for their generosity and donations. The gifts will truly make a difference to children and young people across South Worcestershire”.

The team received almost 200 donations, including toys, teddys, blankets and toiletries, before individually wrapping them and sorting them by age suitability.

Throughout the week they have been visiting schools in the area, delivering presents to children aged 4-10 years.

The team have big ambitions for next year and hope to work with colleagues in WEST teams across Herefordshire and Worcestershire to expand the appeal, helping children and families across the two counties.

Anyone facing financial hardship is encouraged to visit their district council website for information on the local support available.