‘Made with love and purpose’ – knitted hedgehogs are so much more than an Easter gift for families in Weldmar’s care

Children and young people who have a relative in Weldmar’s care – or who have recently been bereaved – and being supported by Weldmar’s Patient and Family Support Services team will receive an extra special gift this Easter, thanks to talented crafters at Dorchester Family Church.

They have been busy knitting colourful hedgehogs, which can encase a small chocolate egg.

Julia Whiting from the church (pictured above right) says: “We have a few church members who are physically disabled for one reason or another and they don’t get to church very often. They can, at times, feel quite isolated from what’s going on. They happen to be very, very good knitters and it helps them to feel included and part of something much bigger than themselves.

“Each Christmas and Easter we come up with a different idea. Just after Christmas we have people asking what are we doing for Easter! They’re keen to take part because they know that they’re going to children who are hurting, and it’s part of their journey and their process. We can give them something that shows that they are loved and cared for by people who don’t even know them.

“They really are made with love and a sense of purpose, and will give fulfilment not only to the people who are making them but hopefully the children and their families who can see that there are people aware of their situation and want to reach out and help in whatever way they can.”

Sandra Francis, Weldmar’s Children and Young Persons Counsellor, says these gifts are far more than just a chocolate treat: “We run various activities for families and these will be gifted to the children and young people that come to those activities over the Easter holidays, and also to the young people that I’m working with in schools across Dorset with counselling sessions.”

A huge thank you to everyone from Dorchester Family Church for their continued support and these wonderful gifts.