A major online auction has been launched by York and Scarborough Hospitals Charity, offering supporters the chance to win a luxury holiday for six in Mallorca and other fantastic prizes, all while raising crucial funds for the hospital's Tiny Lives Appeal.
Supporting the Tiniest Patients
The appeal directly supports the Neonatal Unit at York Hospital, which cares for approximately 375 babies each year. These are newborns who are either born prematurely or with health complications requiring specialist support in their first critical days and weeks of life.
The unit, previously known as the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), provides an essential service for families across York, Scarborough, and the surrounding region. It offers not just medical care for the infants, but also vital comfort, reassurance, and support for their families during an incredibly challenging time.
Fabulous Prizes for a Vital Cause
Local businesses and community supporters have demonstrated remarkable generosity by donating a wide array of items for the auction. The top-tier prizes include:
- A luxury stay for six people in Mallorca.
- A relaxing break at the Feversham Arms Hotel and Verbena Spa in Helmsley.
Other sought-after lots feature afternoon teas, unique dining experiences, and family-friendly activities, ensuring there are options to suit all budgets. The charity has a successful track record with previous auctions, having raised a total of more than £17,000 in the past.
Transforming Care for Families
The funds raised are more critical than ever. A £2 million refurbishment is currently in progress to create a state-of-the-art environment for the babies to grow stronger. The Tiny Lives Appeal aims to contribute £100,000 to this project, specifically to enhance the experience for both babies and their families within the new unit.
This additional funding will allow the charity to purchase extra equipment and furnishings, helping to transform the area into a calm, tranquil, and comforting family-friendly space.
Emma Sargent, Fundraising Manager, emphasised the importance of the environment, stating: "A well-designed, comfortable environment can make a world of difference to families facing the stress and uncertainty of neonatal care. Enhancing the Neonatal Unit helps create a more supportive space for both babies and their families."
She added, "We'd like to thank all the local businesses and supporters who have generously donated a wonderful array of prizes. Bidders will have the chance to win the perfect treat for themselves or their loved ones this Christmas, knowing it's all in support of a very worthy cause."
The online auction is now live. It began at 8am on Monday, November 17 and will run until 8pm on Sunday, November 30. Supporters can place their bids and view all the available lots online at www.yshospitalscharity.org/auction.
