No paws for this kind initiative by Sheffield entrepreneur

BearHugs is the brain-child of Sheffield-based entrepreneur Faye Savory. She came up with the concept after receiving a moving parcel of treats from a friend while she was seriously ill with Lyme Disease.

The gift hampers- which are designed, packaged and sent by the BearHugs social enterprise- are tailored to the individual and contain comforting UK-made treats along with a touching personalised message.

So far around 120 boxes have been sent to Bluebell families, some to children and others to parents and carers.

Now known as the ‘Chief Sender of Hugs’, Faye has always considered it as more of a calling than a job.

She said: “We are over the moon to be able to offer Bluebell Wood families ‘hug in a box’ gifts through our donation scheme for another year.

As a Sheffield-based social enterprise, there's something really special about partnering up with such a beautiful local charity. I am lucky enough to have been able to visit Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice on several occasions and truly believe it is a magical place.”

BearHugs have sold worldwide since the former speech and language therapist started the business in 2015, and Bluebell Wood is one of three charities to benefit.

“We are proud to support the incredible, vital work the charity does, in our own small way”, Faye, who is based in Walkley, added.

In June, Faye scooped the celebrated Hello Magazine #HellotoKindness category in the magazine’s Star Women Awards 2019 for her work with BearHugs.

Claire Gascoyne, whose son Thomas, aged 11, is supported by Bluebell Wood, was certainly feeling the love after a special delivery.

“Thomas received a lovely BearHugs gift after being nominated by our friends Lisa, Ian, Rhianna and Chester,” said Claire, from Dronfield.

“Thomas has had a rough 12 months with increased seizures and has been in and out of hospital. It was such a wonderful surprise.”

Emma Doughty, Head of Family Support at Bluebell Wood, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Bear Hugs will be continuing put to smiles on our family’s faces for another year.

The feedback we’ve had over the past year and has been fantastic and I know there are plenty more families who would love to receive one.

A big thank you to Faye and to all the BearHugs team for their continued support.”

Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice care for children and young adults with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions. They are currently supporting over 300 families, in the North Anston hospice family homes.

Visit www.bluebellwood.org for more information.