IKEA has helped put a smile on children’s faces this Christmas thanks to a generous donation of toys to one of Edinburgh’s best-loved charities.

The Swedish furniture store has donated a bundle of much needed toys to the Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC).

An appeal was launched by IKEA Edinburgh to its customers and staff which has resulted in a whopping £500 worth of arts and crafts materials being donated for use at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children (RHSC).

The materials will be used as part of ECHC’s extensive arts programme to allow the children to immerse themselves in creativity, providing a great distraction from their treatment in hospital.

Scott Birse, Scotland Local Marketing Manager at IKEA UK, said: “We are delighted to work with Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity.

“Every child has the right to play, and studies show that stimulation through play is a critical part of a young child’s brain development and emotional wellbeing.

“We want to be a good neighbour and we are pleased to be able to help children in the local Edinburgh community.”

ECHC was approached by IKEA as part of the furniture giant’s ‘Let’s Play for Change’ campaign.

The team at IKEA Edinburgh then got to work on collecting the toys for the children at hospital.

Amy Ford, Corporate and Trusts Fundraiser at ECHC, said: “We’re very grateful for the incredible donation from IKEA.

“Arts and crafts are a great way for the children to show their creative side and help them be a child first, and a patient second.

“We can’t thank everyone who donated enough. The toys will be a massive help across all the arts activities we carry out throughout the year.”

IKEA’s campaign is focused on play as vital for a healthy childhood.

Across the world, IKEA has granted a total €45 million to support children’s development.

The funding is being spent on projects such as creating safe play spaces for child migrants, bringing sports to children with disabilities and nurturing a love of reading among children living in poor communities.

RHSC, which has had a place in the heart of Edinburgh for 150 years, is spending its last Christmas in style as it marks the end of an era and honours the much-loved place that has cared for so many children.

The hospital will move to a new home in Little France in 2018.

Charity PR can help get your business to that next level

Get in touch with our Scottish agency with expertise in charity PR. We’re a friendly bunch and love to hear the stories behind your business – so that we can tell them to a world in a manner that boosts business – and makes your staff feel fulfilled and recognised.

We’re on 0131 561 2244, or simply fill out this form and we’ll get back to you in a flash: