Bring the magic of Christmas to children accessing our services
Christmas is a time for joy, warmth, and giving — but for many of the children and families supported by Mersey Care services, it can also be a difficult time of year. Some children may not otherwise receive a gift, while others face challenges that can make the festive season feel anything but magical.
That’s why every year, our Mersey Cares Secret Santa Appeal brings together our incredible staff and local communities to spread some festive magic and help make children across the region feel special at Christmas time.
Through the appeal, you can help bring comfort and joy to children and young people across our services — from those supported by mental health and learning disability teams to Children in Care and families receiving community health care.
Every small act of kindness makes a big difference.
What your gift means
A small gift, lovingly chosen and delivered by our staff, can light up a child’s Christmas.
Worry monsters and books about emotions to help children understand and express their feelings
Jigsaws, puzzles, and baby items to bring moments of play and connection
Gift cards for older children and teens, allowing them choose something special for themselves
Comfort items — soft toys, blankets, or little surprises — that remind them they are cared for
Each and every gift will be hand-delivered by teams across the Trust — people who know the children best and understand what would make the perfect Christmas gift for them.
Give a gift. Warm a heart
There are two simple ways to be part of this year’s Secret Santa Appeal:
Make a donation– your contribution will go into our Secret Santa Fund which we we will use to purchase a gift on your behalf!
While the last date for the Amazon Wishlist is 8 December -there is no cut-off for making a donation - our appeal is open all-year round!
Whether you choose to donate a gift or make a monetary contribution, you’ll be helping to create moments of joy and connection that last far beyond Christmas Day.
A true team effort
The Mersey Cares Secret Santa Appeal is a huge joint effort involving staff across all our services — from nurses and therapists to admin teams and volunteers. Following the success of last year’s appeal, we’re determined to make 2025 even bigger and better, reaching more children than ever before.
Speaking at the launch of our 2025 appeal, Shelley Simmons, Team Manager for St Helens Children In Care Team said:
"We’ve been proud to support the Secret Santa appeal over the past few years. Christmas can be a tough time for children in care, so being able to brighten their day with a gift and a little festive cheer means the world to us. Their smiles and gratitude remind us why this campaign matters so much. Thank you to everyone who helps make it possible — your kindness truly makes a difference."
Together, we can bring smiles, warmth, and hope to those who need it most. Let’s make this Christmas magical — one gift at a time.
