Usborne books bring smiles to children’s faces

Usborne books have generously donating over £600.00 worth of books to our children’s wards at Derriford Hospital.

Vikki Dernham, Usborne Book Organiser, decided to organise a community book pledge to raise funds and, after only one month, managed to raise an amazing £610.00 to purchase books for all ages.

Vikki said: “As part of my role, one of the things we can offer schools and organisations linked with children is free books! These can be gained by fundraising events to raise the funds and then Usborne will add a percentage of additional free books, depending on the amount raised.

“I thought it would be great for the children staying at Derriford to have some lovely free books to read, so after discussing it with the hospital, decided to approach local businesses to raise some funds.

“Many local businesses donated and I then auctioned these off online, which was a great success and lots of fun! I then organised a sponsored read with my daughter, nephew and friends, where children were sponsored to read as many books as possible within half an hour, whilst sitting in a paddling pool of jelly. This was great and raised nearly £200.00!

The rest of the money was raised through generous donations from Vikki’s friends and family and also businesses agreeing to have donation pots.

“Everyone was really supportive and gave generously to help to get new books for the hospital. I hope the children will enjoy them and I very much look forward to working with the hospital again in the future, in order to make regular book donations.”

Sue Rodgers, Play Specialist Team Leader, said: “What a fantastic amount of books! Books are always useful for those children that cannot get out of bed but still want distraction. This range of books for all ages is going to be so useful.

“We have already had children borrowing them and telling us some of the stories. They have brought a lot of smiles to our patients. We thank Vikki for all of her hard work.”