West Sussex crafting group makes thank you video to mark 72nd anniversary of the NHS

The 700-strong Facebook group, with volunteers from across West Sussex, has been busy making free items for the NHS and other key workers, such as scrub bags, ear protectors and headbands with buttons to help ease the discomfort of face masks.

The video made for the NHS birthday on Sunday, July 5, features many of the children and adults involved and the items they have produced, to say thank you and highlight their work.

Victoria Hill, from Worthing, started the group with her six-year-old daughter Emily and since then, more than 6,000 items have been made.

Last month, Victoria was admitted to Worthing Hospital with chronic pelvic pain due to endometriosis and during her five-day stay, she talked to staff about the group.

Victoria said: “I was talking to one of the doctors and she didn’t know what ear-savers were. When I explained and showed her that they made wearing a mask much more comfortable, she tried it straight away and said it would make a huge difference to her and her colleagues.

“I want every hospital and all keyworkers to benefit and all they need to do is get in touch with their request list.”

The group also makes knitted and felt hearts for hospital staff to give to families that lose loved ones.

All finished items are quality-checked by volunteers Sue Nea and Charlotte Compton, than hand-delivered to a wide range of places.

To request items, email [email protected]

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