John Radcliffe Hospital Project Update.

What a difference a few months makes to the needs of those whose lives we touch.  The new Ronald McDonald House at the John Radcliffe in Oxford is nearing completion and they hope to be given the keys in March. This is what it will look like when finished – as I write this the big logos around the building are still missing! 62 families will find a safe and welcoming place to stay here. The plans for how we support these families once the move has taken place but may change, but until then, please continue to send in mini-sized toiletries: soap, shower gel, shampoo, (conditioners and body lotions are great too), and individually wrapped toothbrushes with mini toothpastes. Coffee and Hot chocolate in jars (any size – but not individually wrapped sachets), washing powder/gels (any brand & size) and dried pasta, tinned soup and baked beans are also welcome.  

The chaplaincy at the JR have been overwhelmed by the large number of mini prayer shawls that you have made and thank you very much for them all. However, please do not send any more of these until you hear that they are needed again. I have also learned that they would prefer not to have the larger shawls now. If you would like to knit shawls why not speak to a different hospital trust chaplaincy team or your local clergy to explain what they are and see if they can make good use of them?  If knitting is your passion, then there is always (sadly) a need for Angel pockets. There is a pattern on our website, or do contact the office if you need a hard copy. The knitting needs of the Neonatal Unit remain the same – i.e. 24 inch square blankets (in one piece, not squares sewn together) and cardigans with one button to fit a baby from 3lbs (1.36 Kg) to full term.  The Treasured Memory Kits are always welcomed. When a baby dies, the hand and foot prints of each child in the family is taken so that the parents have a memory of how their family was for a brief period of time. These kits (called My babylog Inkless Wipe Hand and Foot Prints Kit) are obtainable through Amazon, but sadly it seems, cost £4.99. About 60 children’s hand and footprints are needed each year.

Thank you, as always, for the love you show so many families.  If you would be interested in becoming a Chaplaincy Volunteer at one of the Oxford Hospitals please get in touch with me to find out more (alison.bennett@hotmail.co.uk) as there are plans to recruit more volunteers very soon. Training will be given!  Thank you as always for the love you show so many families. 

Written by Alison Bennett

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