A Sheffield health branch of UNISON has raised a thousand pounds for the Royal British Legion’s poppy appeal by giving out knitted poppies.
The poppies were mainly made by matron Sue Lake, and distributed by representatives of the UNISON Sheffield Teaching Hospitals branch.
For every poppy given away, the branch pledged to donate £2 to the Royal British Legion’s poppy appeal.
The poppies were available to pick up both on site at the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield, as well as in various community locations, such as supermarkets, across South Yorkshire.
At December’s branch committee meeting, it was agreed to round up the amount pledged, and make a £1,000 donation.
UNISON Sheffield Teaching Hospitals branch secretary John Campbell said: “I’m really proud of everyone involved in raising such a significant donation for such an important cause.
“It’s been wonderful to be out in various locations, representing UNISON and raising money for the Royal British Legion.
“Some of the displays we’ve seen while doing this have been very moving, and it’s a privilege to have been able to contribute as a branch.”
The branch committee meeting also saw a presentation from Karen Gardner from the Royal British Legion, explaining the significance of the donation coming from a South Yorkshire health branch.
She explained how around 1,200 veterans joined the NHS workforce in the past five years, and that according to the 2021 census, over 13,000 people in Sheffield have previously served in the armed forces.
In addition, the presentation gave an indication of how the money could be used. £150 is enough to provide a household starter pack to help a family in a new home, while £300 can provide a half-day multiple activity course at the Royal British Legion’s Battle Back Centre.
Royal British Legion poppy appeal manager for Sheffield and Rotherham Karen Gardner said: “It’s an amazing donation. We’re so grateful.
“Coming to meet the branch and explain more about the work the Royal British Legion does is an absolute pleasure for me.
“I think sometimes volunteers aren’t aware of where the money they raise is going, or how it’s used – so it’s great to be able to explain that.
“It’s been really lovely to meet everybody, and really overwhelming, actually.”
