Families going through the toughest of times are set for another year of heart-warming ‘hugs in boxes’ thanks to a kind-hearted Sheffield entrepreneur.

Over the past year, children and families supported by Bluebell Wood have regularly found uplifting surprises in the post after being nominated by a loved one.

The gift hampers – which are designed, packaged and sent by social enterprise BearHugs - are tailored to the individual and contain comforting UK-made treats along with a touching personalised message. 

So far around 120 boxes have been sent to Bluebell families, some to children and others to parents and carers.

Faye Savory, 30, came up with the BearHugs concept after receiving a moving parcel of treats from a friend while she was seriously ill with Lyme Disease.

Now known as the ‘Chief Sender of Hugs’, Faye has always considered it as more of a calling than a job.

“We are over the moon to be able to offer Bluebell Wood families ‘hug in a box’ gifts through our donation scheme for another year,” said Faye, from Walkley.

“As a Sheffield-based social enterprise, there's something really special about partnering up with such a beautiful local charity. I am lucky enough to have been able to visit Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice on several occasions and truly believe it is a magical place.

“We are proud to support the incredible, vital work the charity does, in our own small way.

"Our Hug Donation Assistant, Georgina, does a wonderful job designing the personalised gifts for Bluebell Wood families and I can't wait to see our team hand-pack lots more lovely hugs for the deserving families over the coming 12 months.”

BearHugs have sold worldwide since the former speech and language therapist started the business in 2015, and Bluebell Wood is one of three charities to benefit.

In June, Faye scooped the celebrated Hello Magazine #HellotoKindness category in the magazine’s Star Women Awards 2019 for her work with BearHugs.

Claire Gascoyne, who son Thomas, 11, is supported by Bluebell Wood, was certainly feeling the love after a special delivery.

“Thomas received a lovely BearHugs gift after being nominated by our friends Lisa, Ian, Rhianna and Chester,” said Claire.

“Thomas has had a rough 12 months with increased seizures and has been in and out of hospital - it was such a wonderful surprise.”

Emma Doughty, Head of Family Support at Bluebell Wood, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Bear Hugs will be continuing put to smiles on our family’s faces for another year.

“The feedback we’ve had over the past year and has been fantastic and I know there are plenty more families who would love to receive one.

“A big thank you to Faye and to all the BearHugs team for their continued support.”