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Young patients have kickstarted Christmas at Basildon, Southend and Broomfield hospitals by switching on their Christmas tree lights.  

Each event, filled with carols and festive cheer, brought together staff from across Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust to celebrate with patients, families and the local community. 

At Basildon Hospital, Ella, aged five, from Corringham, pressed the button to light up the tree lights. She said: “I’m so excited! I loved turning on the lights!”. 

Her mum, Jess, added: “Seeing her smile after all she’s been through has been the best gift we could ask for. Thanks to the Play team for this opportunity and special thanks to Nikki Tuffin and Chloe Patel for their amazing care.”

Broomfield Hospital’s ceremony featured 13-year-old Phoebe, who flipped the tree light switch. She said: “Christmas is my favourite time of the year. I love the lights, the decorations and all the festive fun. Being part of this made it feel even more special.” 

Phoebe’s mum said: “This has been such a heartwarming experience. I can't thank the Phoenix ward staff enough especially Amy and the Community Nursing team."

At Southend Hospital, Evie, seven, from Westcliff, was wowed by the crowd who’d gathered to see her turn on the lights at the front of the hospital. She said: “I was really excited when I heard I was going to switch on the lights. I felt like Santa’s helper!”

Her mum, Sarah, said: “Evie feels like she is a little local celebrity by being asked to switch on the lights, especially as Christmas is her favourite time of year. She loves the cheeky elf on the shelf and gets really excited about them coming out in December, she has already written them several letters.”

The trees, the lights and hot drinks were all kindly supported and made possible by Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity. 

Lucy Thomas-Clayton, Director of Charities and Voluntary Services at the Trust, said: “These ceremonies are a wonderful reminder of the hope and resilience of our young patients, as well as the commitment of our staff. They bring us all together, creating light not only in the trees but also in our hearts.” 

Throughout December, staff across the Trust are spreading festive cheer by delivering letters from loved ones to patients, decorating wards, as well as giving gifts to those spending Christmas in hospital.