Noble’s Hospital has been very fortunate to be chosen as one of a few hospitals in the United Kingdom to benefit from a national Freemasonry initiative, the Teddies for Loving Care (TLC) Appeal, which provides free teddy bears to children who are cared for in Accident and Emergency Departments. The teddies are used by staff in various ways, including as a reward for bravery, as a soother for nervous or anxious children to cuddle, or for staff to indicate where on the body the child will be treated. Staff at Noble’s Hospital have reported that the teddies help them to administer medical assistance more easily and quickly. Children are allowed to keep the teddy, which then accompanies them for the rest of their Hospital visit or stay, and they can also take it home with them. Pamela Hammal, Senior Sister in the Accident and Emergency Department, said, “When I was first introduced to this idea, I was curious as to the benefit of these teddies in the Accident and Emergency setting. Six months on, it is hard to remember how we managed without them. They have certainly helped distressed children on many occasions. I can honestly say that the TLC Appeal has made a real and practical impact in our care of young children attending the Accident and Emergency Department and would like to thank the Isle of Man Freemason Brethren for their support.” Kevin Adams, of the Isle of Man Freemasons, added, ‘Our special thanks must also be extended to John Quaye and the team at Manx Independent Carriers, without whose help this project would not have been possible.” - ENDS -