There's been two inspirational and lovely special events this week as CHFT runs up to Christmas.

1 Michelle Sykes, the Occupational Therapist with the Discharge Team, arranged for all elderly care wards to stage a tea party for Christmas - top photo.

Adrian Brown and staff from catering asked our suppliers for donations and extras to make this happen, and huge thanks to them for putting on a lovely spread for the elderly care wards.

All wards had sandwiches, cakes and mince pies on Saturday morning. Patients and relatives joined in in the Christmas party spirit.

Hannah added: " Next year, we hope this event can be bigger. We want not only  to spread some festive cheer to patients on our wards, but  also are looking to invite elderly people who will see no-one at Christmas into the hospital for a Christmas party.  So many older people experience loneliness, especially during Winter and at Christmas."

The tea parties went down really well on the wards and our patients not only enjoyed the additional treats but, where they were able, enjoyed sitting in the day rooms and chatting to others.

2 Pam Warhurst - founder of Incredible Edible - visited spoke to staff about the power of doing small things to create change and the power this can have on a community and making a big difference.

Hannah Wood, said: " Pam is an inspirational leader and spoke enthusiastically about the power we all have to make small changes to everyday situations and how these have a big impact on not only us but others also.

"She encouraged people to challenge the norm and to think creatively to build a more sustainable future for our communities. CHFT currently have a project that is still in its early stages….we want to build a garden! For any members of staff interested in joining in, keep a look out for upcoming events."