Knitting group creates 200 ‘trauma teddies’
A KNITTING group has made more than 200 teddies to comfort Welsh Ambulance Service patients in their hour of need.
Ladies involved in Pontyclun’s Yarnmongers knitting group have been busily clicking their needles to create a total of 238 “trauma teddies” for the emergency service.
They will be used to help put patients both young and old at ease while they travel with ambulance crews in the Cwm Taf University Health Board area.
The idea was put forward by Sheila Harris, who runs the knitting group, which was originally set up by Jenny Watts of Ammonite Yarns in Pontyclun.
Sheila approached the ambulance service earlier this year, and the group was supported in creating the teddies by Pontyclun and District Macmillan Fundraisers and the Welcome Friends group.
Sheila said: “The original target was to reach 100 teddies to present for initial trials, but we exceeded all expectations and were amazed by the brilliant response.
“We are planning to continue providing these lovely creations on an ongoing basis as required by the ambulance service.”
Leanne Hawker, head of patient experience and community involvement at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said she was delighted by the kind gifts from the group.
She said: “It will make a big difference for our ambulance crews to be able to carry these soft toys in their vehicles, as they can help to calm distressed patients and make their experience a less frightening one.
“They can also be used to communicate with children who might be reluctant to talk about their injuries or pain, but can show our colleagues using their teddy.
“A teddy can also be used to demonstrate any equipment. If you can distract a child this can also help to reduce their symptoms or pain.
“We are really grateful to Sheila and the group for their kindness in taking the time and care to knit so many soft toys for our patients.”
Yarnmongers knitting group is open to anyone who wishes to join, and knit, sew, donate spare wool or just to socialise.
There is no charge for joining the group, which meets every Thursday at Cafe 50 in Pontyclun from 10am to 12pm.
Sheila added: “If anyone would like to learn to knit or has sewing skills they could perhaps contribute, you’ll be made very welcome.”
Anyone who would like further information about the group or to donate wool can contact Sheila Harris on sheilaharris12@btinternet.com