Was there a need?
The concept was discussed at length with senior A&E staff, who were able to add practical advice.
How many Teddies are needed?
Again, advice was sought from hospitals – though our own judgement was required in interpreting available information. Most hospitals only have records of the number of under 16’s attending A&E, with no breakdown by age or severity of distress. In one Essex hospital this was 12,000 per annum. Experience has shown that around 3,000 or 25% have been selected by staff as suitable recipients of a TLC Teddy.
What Teddies to use?
The considerations here included.
Size - Not to small for older children, but not to big for small children or likely to hinder treatment.
Style - Attractive and colourful for children – and “Cuddly!”
Materials - Suitable for a medical environment (e.g. short haired and minimal hard parts).
Toy Safety Regulations - Only new teddies that complied with or exceeded all current regulations are acceptable.
Cost - Within fundraising range.
We now have TLC Teddy design exclusive to us.
Average cost per teddy is around £1, including delivery.
How to source the Teddies?
This has now developed into bulk manufacture of our own design
Which A&Es to supply?
Do we use Provincial or A&E and NHS Trust Boundaries?
It was decided that Provincial boundaries would be used. The offer of the Teddies was made to all A&E units in Essex
How to distribute to A&Es?
Logistics of Storage and delivery
A local businessman heard of what we were trying to do, liked the Idea, and offered his assistance. He is not a Freemason.
How to organise the Appeal – and what form should it take?
A committee was set up from volunteers
The Appeal became a Trust and was registered as a Charity - despite initial reservations.
Fundraising
Is the overall cost fundable?
From the positive response we received whilst explaining the concept, it was felt that the support was there.
How do we raise funds?
Donations by Lodges
Donations by Individuals
The sale of Lapel/Tie Pins
The sale of Key Rings
How to keep up the impetus of interest for Freemasons?
Self promoting – many Freemasons know someone who has benefited.
Regular articles in Provincial Magazines.
Members of the committee and volunteers visit and keep in contact with Lodges, to keep them advised of the progress of the Appeal.
