Great Ormond Street

Maximus is delighted to be supporting the Great Ormond Street Christmas Charity for its present drive for the children and babies who will be at Great Ormond Street during the festive holiday period.

The Maximus 'elves' are helping Santa to fill up his sleigh with lots of presents, which will be donated from individuals, companies, groups, and whoever wants to pitch in and get involved!

How do I donate?

If you would like to donate to this very worthy cause, please contact us on [insert number]. When you drop off a present to us, please don't wrap it (the Elves will do this!) - but do attach your name, company and email address.

What sorts of presents do the kids like?

Great choices include board games, computer games, arts and crafts kits, modelling kits, jigsaws and kits for girls, such as nail art and jewellery-making kits. Generally creative sets and absorbing gifts that can keep kids entertained and busy, and take their mind off the treatments they may be receiving, are an excellent choice.

What about toys for babies?

Our babies love to receive gifts too and excellent choices include mobiles to hang over cots (including musical mobiles), kaleidoscopes, musical toys and toys that will stimulate their senses.

Are there any toys that you can't use?

Yes. Great Ormond Street cannot accept used toys, over-sized soft toys, large mechanical toys or motorised toys, as well as secondhand books or magazines or used clothing.

Tips for picking the perfect gift

Great Ormond Street has children right up to the age of 18 in its care, and teenagers are often forgotten. So please consider a broad age-group when you donate a gift.

Children particularly love favourite characters such as Winnie the Pooh, Harry Potter, Walt Disney, In the Night Garden and Moshi Monsters. If you donate chocolate, please make sure that the ingredients are displayed prominently on the packet so we can be mindful of any allergies.

Please don't wrap gifts. This will help us to allocate them to the right patient and they will be gift wrapped by the elves before the big day.

And the really exciting news is that your efforts will be doubled, as Maximus has committed to donating an extra gift for every present that is donated. Get into the festive spirit this season, and give a sick child at Great Ormond Street a welcome treat this Christmas.

If you want to help please contact caroline@maximus-it.com or 02074226000