Where there's wool there's a way for hospital Friends

Now, in the League’s 67th year, members have gone back to where it all started – by picking up their knitting needles.

In the beginning they knitted bed socks for patients – this time around they are providing hand muffs to support the care of those with dementia.

Items are added to the knitted bands, including buttons and ribbons, with the different textures providing stimulation as patients ‘twiddle’ them.

Ward manager Ann Callaghan said: “They are such a simple idea but they are very effective and, thanks to The League of Friends, we now have a good supply.

“Patients with dementia can experience restlessness and become agitated, and twiddling with the bands can help to reduce anxiety and have a calming effect.

“They also have practical uses in keeping their hands warm and preventing them from taking out devices such as cannulas.”

League of Friends Chairman Maureen Young said: “When staff asked if our members might be interested in knitting the twiddle mitts, we put out a call and I was amazed at the response.

“They have thoroughly enjoyed the project and we’re delighted that we were able to help in this way.”

The South Tyneside League is one of the oldest NHS voluntary groups. It raises money to provide patients and staff with extra comforts and equipment.

Most of the money comes from the shop in the main entrance of South Tyneside District Hospital’s Ingham Wing.