Ansvar, the expert charity and not-for-profit insurer, is proud to announce that Croydon-based charity Children’s Hospital Pyjamas has been selected as a winner of its Community Campaign. The charity will receive £5,000 to support the exceptional work it carries out, helping it to reach its target of donating 100,000 pairs of pyjamas by the end of the year.

Founded in 2010 by Charmaine Green, Children’s Hospital Pyjamas was inspired by a simple act of kindness. When Charmaine’s daughter Nevaeh was undergoing treatment for leukaemia, their family received a thoughtful gift of a scooter. This compassionate gesture during a difficult time made them realise the significance of showing support to families in similar situations. Initially, they started with toy donations but realised that providing comfortable pyjamas would make a difference to children during hospital stays.

After achieving registered charity status in 2019, Children’s Hospital Pyjamas extended its reach beyond Croydon, and now generously donates pyjamas to hospitals, hospices, and women’s refuges across the UK through a team of 60 volunteers. Their work fills critical gaps, such as providing fresh pyjamas to children arriving in A&E with damaged clothing, those being supported by social services without their own pyjamas, or children who have fled dangerous situations and now find refuge.

Additionally, the charity provides pyjamas for children who have sadly passed away, allowing their families to see them looking comfortable and at peace.

In 2022, Children’s Hospital Pyjamas donated 21,057 pairs of pyjamas. This was made possible thanks to contributions from generous members of the public, supportive businesses, and designated donation points. Schools have also played their part by organising pyjama days where children either donate a pair or contribute £1, with all proceeds benefitting the charity. Additionally, Puddle Ducks, the nationwide children’s swim school, is holding fundraising events in October. Pupils at a number of the groups will be donating and taking to the pool in their pyjamas, which as well as benefitting Children’s Hospital Pyjamas, helps teach them how it feels to be submerged fully clothed.

To provide comfort to parents and carers, each pair of pyjamas is thoughtfully packaged in a bag with a sticker and two handmade hearts – one for the child and one for the parent or guardian, all crafted by the charity’s volunteers.

Charmaine Green, Founder of Children’s Hospital Pyjamas, expressed her gratitude for Ansvar’s support. She commented:

“We are incredibly grateful to Ansvar for choosing us as the recipient of their Community Campaign. Since we started collecting, Children’s Hospital Pyjamas has donated an astounding 80,000 pairs of PJs, and we are determined to reach an ambitious milestone of 100,000 by the end of 2023. This contribution will make a significant difference in our mission to provide comfort and warmth to children in challenging circumstances. With Ansvar’s help, we can purchase more pyjamas and continue spreading love and comfort to those who need it most.”

Kelly Barter, Customer Services Manager at Ansvar, said:

“Through our Community Campaign, Ansvar is committed to supporting charities that make a profound difference in their local areas. Children’s Hospital Pyjamas embodies the spirit of community and compassion and we are thrilled to support their remarkable efforts in bringing solace to children and their families during difficult times.”

Children’s Hospital Pyjamas has a need for donations suitable for children under 3 years old and teenagers, which includes adult sizes small and medium, all donations must be brand new. Visit the charity’s website to see how donations can be made to help them meet their target – https://www.childrenshospitalpyjamas.co.uk/donate/.