Great Ormond Street Hospital and Charity

Home
United Kingdom
London
Great Ormond Street Hospital and Charity

Our extraordinary hospital has always depended on charitable support, and every day is a chance for you to make a difference.

Every day brings new challenges at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). Every day, 619 children and young people from across the UK arrive for life-changing treatments. Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity raises money to enable the hospital to provide world class care and to pioneer new treatments and cures for childhood illnesses.

23/01/2025

Come with us on a day in the life of GOSH dancer, Kate. 💙

No two days are the same for Kate at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Whether she’s hosting a space-themed dance party in the Disney Reef, or tailoring special sessions on wards, she helps young patients express themselves, move their bodies and, most importantly, have fun.

”Being a wheelchair user working as an artist in the hospital is incredible. I’ve heard families say, ‘you could be a dancer like Kate.’ Giving that moment of hope to a family, and showing them that disability is okay, is why I’m on the wards. I wouldn’t swap this job for anything.”

[Image descriptions:
1 Kate wearing her GOSH jumper in the Disney Reef. Text reads "A day in the life of a GOSH Arts dancer..."

2 Selfie of Kate and Charlene eating. Text reads "Charlene (another artist at GOSH) and I grab a sweet treat and plan our shift..."

3 Kate and patient Aditi balancing balls on their heads. Text reads "We have a pizza-themed dance party with nine-year-old Aditi..."

4 Kate in her wheelchair, smiling, outside the hospital building. Text reads "Home time!"]

21/01/2025

Happy 10 year GOSH-iversary Anita! 🎉

Anita recently celebrated 10 years as a volunteer at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Her journey began when she was asked to donate to Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity but couldn’t contribute financially at the time. Instead, she decided to give something just as valuable - her time.

As a weekend club volunteer, Anita brings joy to patients and families by visiting the wards with games, sensory toys and crafts.

“I have lots of wonderful memories, but one of my favourites was spending a day playing card games and turning bed pans into crowns with a patient and her family. That moment inspired that patient to become a weekend club volunteer too!” She says.

Thank you Anita for your kindness and dedication to GOSH over the past decade. 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 Anita and another volunteer wearing costumes in a hospital corridor. Anita wearing a Batgirl outfit and the other volunteer is in a blue unicorn onesie.
2 Anita wearing a yellow GOSH volunteer shirt sitting on a ledge in front of a screen with the GOSH logo on.
3 Anita wearing a yellow GOSH volunteer shirt smiling, standing next to a decorated Christmas tree.]

16/01/2025

We were so excited to welcome Blippi to the hospital as he filmed a new episode of his popular children’s YouTube series with us.

In the episode “Hospital Helpers”, Blippi learns how volunteers and staff provide a warm welcome to patients at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

He meets volunteer Shirley and therapy dog Ted, Play Team members Tania and Holly, and our talented ballerina Tara from GOSH Arts.

During his visit, Blippi also took the time to meet patients like Amari who’d decorated his room blue and orange just for the visit.

Check out the episode on YouTube. 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 Blippi inbetween two play workers, Tania and Holly. Blippi is wearing an orange and blue hat, orange glasses, a blur shirt and an orange bowtie. Tania and Holly are wearing purple GOSH t shirts. They are holding syringes full of paint.
2 GOSH volunteer Shirley, dressed in a yellow volunteer t shirt, standing next to Blippi, are pictured with therapy dog Ted who is wearing a doctors outfit.
3 Blippi and GOSH Arts ballerina Tara jumping in the air. Tara is wearing a blue leotard with a white ballet skirt. They are pictured outside]

15/01/2025

Meet George!

Inspiring George is a patient at Great Ormond Street Hospital and a fundraising superstar.

After undergoing surgery last year, George decided to give back to the teams who cared for him. With the help of his friends and family, he set out on an incredible fundraising journey.

First, George’s Dad ran a hybrid fitness race called Hyrox.

Then, George organised two non-uniform days at his and his sister’s schools, raising an amazing £2,000!

Finally, George teamed up with pro golfer Charley Hull, who raffled off some of her memorabilia to raise even more money.

In total, George raised an amazing £35,000!

“We could not be prouder of George, not only for everything he’s gone through, but his kindness and thoughtfulness for others is mind-blowing.” Kate and James, George’s parents.

Join us in saying a big thank you to George for all of his hard work! 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 George sitting on a hospital bed wearing a hospital gown with colourful numbers on it.
2 George holding a large charity check for £35,455 to the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, standing between two Christmas trees at GOSH.]

14/01/2025

”Conor was the most amazing little boy and we could not be prouder of what he achieved in his short life – he taught us what real strength and bravery looked like.” Helen, Conor’s mum. 💙

When Conor was just 10 weeks old, he was diagnosed with critical congenital heart disease and was brought to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

After undergoing open heart surgery and a long difficult recovery in hospital, his family learned that no good surgical options remained and made the decision to bring him home, determined to fill his short life with love and happiness.

Sadly, Conor passed away in their arms four months after returning home, but his family remains incredibly proud of everything he achieved in his time with them.

In memory of Conor, Helen ran the London Landmarks Half Marathon in support of GOSH Charity with three friends from her running club.

Are you ready to make a difference in 2025? Kickstart your new year by joining TeamGOSH today!

Click here to find out more: https://bit.ly/3E3S79k

[Image descriptions:
1 Conor smiling and lying on a colorful bed with animal designs.
2 Helen running with her arms in the air wearing a purple running vest supporting Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity]

13/01/2025

“I see it as a recognition for the dedication and determination of all those who have been involved in improving the treatment of children with leukaemia.” Professor Ajay Vora.

Meet Professor Ajay Vora. He’s a Consultant Paediatric Haematologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital and was recently awarded an MBE for his services to childhood leukaemia.

A leader in his field, Professor Vora combines the very best care and the latest in research and innovation for our patients.

We couldn’t be prouder of Professor Vora for everything he’s accomplished so far and for all he’ll go on to do. 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 Professor Ajay Vora standing in front of a colorful wall mural featuring a tree and birds.]

09/01/2025

Did you know? In 1929, JM Barrie gifted the rights to Peter Pan to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

So, we were delighted to learn that two former GOSH patients, Summer and Mouse, are currently performing as Wendy in Chickenshed’s production of Pan.

Join us in wishing them the best of luck for the rest of the shows. 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 Split image of Summer on the left wearing a hospital gown, standing in a hospital room, and on the right, Mouse is wearing a white lace top and black shorts, standing in front of a colorful wall of artwork.
2 Split image featuring Summer on the left and Mouse on the right, performing as Wendy on stage.]

08/01/2025

This month, the Radiology team at Great Ormond Street Hospital are swapping out their New Year's resolutions for a self-care challenge.

From taking up crocheting to watching the sunrise, they’re inspiring us all to spend a bit more time taking care of ourselves.

Are they missing something? Tell us what your ideal self-care activity is! 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 A photo of a radiographer from the Radiology team, smiling and pointing to a whiteboard full of self care ideas and doodles: learn a new language or skill, take a day break from social media, buy yourself flowers, have a meal with a friend, read a book, declutter a room, sleep eight hours a night two times a week, give someone a compliment each day, buy yourself a cup of tea or coffee, write down three new goals this year, take a 20 min walk at least twice a week, reach out to someone you have not talked to in a long time, take a photo with someone you love, if you are angry take a deep breath and think lovely thoughts, have a cozy day, tell someone you are grateful for them, drink at least two litres/pints of water twice a week, hug at least five different people, do an act of kindness without expecting a thank you, watch a sunrise or a sunset and quietly meditate, cook a dish you would not normally make, ask someone to help you, be around someone who makes you laugh.]

02/01/2025

“Great Ormond Street Hospital saved my life and will always be close to my heart. It has an incredible charity that my family and I will continue to support.” Mia, former GOSH patient. 💙

When she was born, Mia faced severe breathing difficulties and was rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Her family were told her chances of survival were slim, but thanks to the doctors and nurses at GOSH she was able to make a full recovery.

To celebrate her 16th birthday, Mia decided to take on her biggest fundraising challenge yet - a skydive!

Joined by her cousin Mica and aunty Eve, she completed the sky dive, raising nearly £3,000!

Are you feeling inspired to take on a challenge in 2025? Whether it’s a run, cycle, trek, or skydive you can help give seriously ill kids childhoods that are fuller, funner and longer.

Click here to get involved: https://bit.ly/4gLZ8dc

[Image descriptions:
1. Mia excitedly sitting in an open airplane door about to skydive.
2. Mia with her cousin Mica and aunty Eve in skydiving gear, smiling. Each wearing a t-shirt with the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity logo.
3. Mia smiling and holding a certificate stating "Congratulations Mia, you have completed a tandem skydive from 13500ft at the Army Parachute Association."]

31/12/2024

It’s been another memorable year for us at Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity!

Swipe to see some of the incredible things you helped us achieve in 2024.

A huge thanks to every one of our supporters who helped us make it all happen.

Here’s to a Happy New Year and an even better 2025. 💙

[Image descriptions:
1. A GOSH patient smiling, playing with toys overlaid with three heart doodles. Text reads: "GOSH Arts delivered over 15,000 hours of creative masterpieces and dance-offs."

2. Three people, including a GOSH patient are posing with an F1 car. Text reads: "Over 40 of our patients became VIPs at the F1 British Grand Prix." There's two shooting star doodles.

3. A GOSH patient smiling, holding his elephant art. Text reads: "1,296 play sessions helped to make hospital a little easier and a lot more fun." There's three star doodles over the image.

4. A research technician's hands are conducting a laboratory test. Text reads: "We funded over £17 million towards groundbreaking research." There's two lighting doodles over the image.

5. Five children wearing blue GOSH Charity t-shirts are posed to start running. Text reads: "Over 9,000 TeamGOSH Heroes joined RBC Race for the Kids." There's three flower doodles over the image.]

30/12/2024

It all began when Harry asked his dad “What happens to poorly children at Christmas?”

That question led Harry and his dad, Dan, to discover the work of Great Ormond Street Hospital and the GOSH Run 31km in December Challenge and they knew they had to get involved.

The challenge was perfect fit for Harry, who’s super sporty. Since starting on December 1st, he’s completed the full 31km and raised over £3,000!

“The more money we raise, the more it will help children at GOSH” Harry says and even hoped some of the money would go towards Christmas presents for the children.

Harry’s become a local hero, with people beeping and cheering him on as he runs through his town.

Join us in saying a big thank you to Harry for all his support! 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 Harry and his dad Dan standing outside at night. Harry is wearing a 'Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity' t-shirt.
2 Harry standing and smiling with thumbs up in front of a door.
3 Harry and Dan wearing Santa hats smiling for a selfie.]

28/12/2024

What a magical day at Great Ormond Street Hospital! ✨

Last week, our friends from Disney made a special stop on their Jingle Bell Tour to spread Christmas cheer.

A huge thank you to Mickey Mouse and his friends for bringing joy to patients and staff.

[Image descriptions:
1 GOSH Patient Camilla taking a group photo with Disney characters Pluto, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Chip and Dale, and Goofy in front of the Disney Reef at GOSH.
2 GOSH Patient Zarwa and her mum taking a group photo with Disney characters Pluto, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Chip and Dale, and Goofy in front of the Disney Reef at GOSH.
3. Four GOSH staff members taking a group photo with Disney characters Pluto, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Chip and Dale, and Goofy in front of the Disney Reef at GOSH.]

27/12/2024

“This time last year, Isla was so fragile and we didn’t think we’d ever be able to celebrate with her again. To have her settled at home and involved in the magic of Christmas is everything we could’ve ever dreamt of.” Chloe, Isla’s proud mum.

After spending 18 months on Robin Ward, Isla got to spend Christmas at home with her family.

It was a day they’d all been waiting for, and one filled with gifts, chocolates and untold amounts of pigs in blankets.

Merry Christmas, Isla 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 Isla smiling, sitting in between her mum and dad.
2 Isla wearing a red dress, sitting on a wooden chair in front of a Christmas tree.]

26/12/2024

“For me to be able to help them, it was a privilege and an honour.” Lee, black cab driver. 💙

Meet Lee, one of seven amazing black cab drivers who took some of our GOSH families on a free festive trip around London to see the Christmas lights.

One of those families included three-year-old Alfie, who’s been in Great Ormond Street Hospital since June and will likely spend the holidays in hospital.

Alfie hasn’t been able to go ice skating or visits Santa so their trip to see the lights was a chance for Alfie to experience Christmas safely.

With the help of his wife and kids, Lee decorated the taxi with lights, treats and of course festive music.

'We felt like royalty. This is our only Christmas thing that we've all done together and it's something we’ll remember forever.” Kathleen, Alfie’s mum.

A big thank you to Lee and all the black cab drivers who helped to bring the magic of Christmas to GOSH.

[Image description: A selfie taken by Lee of himself and Alfie and his family sat in a black cab. The car is decorated with Christmas tinsel and lights.]

25/12/2024

Chanukah Sameach to all our staff, patients and their families who are celebrating.

We joined in the traditional customs of crafts, doughnuts, and a special lighting of the Chanukiah at nightfall.

[Image descriptions:
1 A Chanukiah is surrounded by blue and gold balloons with "Happy Hanukkah" written on them.
2 A close-up view of doughnuts displayed on a colourful napkin.
3 A Chanukah-themed children's painting.]

25/12/2024

We’re wishing a very Merry Christmas to all our GOSH families, staff and supporters. 🎄

We hope your day is as full of joy as this year’s Snow Ball parties. 💙

24/12/2024

This week, our friend Jack Whitehall and his lovely mum Hilary visited Great Ormond Street Hospital.

They surprised patients and staff on Kangaroo and Leopard Wards, bringing festive joy and lots of laughter with them.

Thanks so much for visiting and making us all smile. 💙

[Image descriptions:
1 Jack Whitehall standing in between four nurses in a hospital corridor.
2 Jack Whitehall and his mum Hilary standing beside statues of Dory and Nemo from "Finding Nemo" in the Disney Reef at GOSH.]

23/12/2024

”Having a baby in hospital is very difficult, even more so when they are a long way from home and family.” Laura, Oliver's mum 💙

Oliver has Down’s Syndrome and was born with a hole in his heart. He spent the first seven months of his life in hospitals, including three of those at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

When Oliver had to spend Christmas in hospital, GOSH Charity provided his family with a place to stay nearby so they could spend the holiday together.

“The family accommodation meant we were able to spend longer together over the Christmas holiday, and create a home from home feel for our older two boys.” Laura says.

We believe no family should have to spend Christmas in the hospital, but when they do, we try to make sure it really does feel like Christmas.

Head to the link in our bio to find out how you can help more families like Oliver’s this Christmas.

Address

London

Telephone

+442074059200

Website

http://www.gosh.nhs.uk/, https://www.gosh.org/, https://shop.gosh.org/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Great Ormond Street Hospital and Charity posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.