‘Trauma Teddies’ making things easier

A group of retirees based in Westbrook has been busy with yarn and needles, creating teddy bears that aim to make the more difficult moments in children’s lives a little bit easier.

Westbrook Trauma Teddy group organiser Erica Paynter said the teddies have been lovingly knitted for children who may be experiencing some distress and need something to cuddle and bring comfort.

“For some children dental procedures can be traumatic, even though the staff at Westbrook Family Dental are wonderful and cuddling a teddy that the patient gets to keep can be both calming and a comfort,” Ms Paynter said.

“A group of faithful knitters from around the Darling Downs meet once a month in Westbrook to put the finishing touches on each Trauma teddy.

“Their time, skill, wool and stuffing are very generously donated and love is knitted into every stitch.”

Ms Paynter said many in the Westbrook Trauma Teddy group are retirees who delight in putting their skills and time to good community use and love getting together, comparing teddies and their stories.

“The group have also recently provided Trauma Teddies to the Multicultural Centre in Toowoomba for Refugee children both Yazidi and Ukrainian,” she said.

“The teddies are added into the welcome packs when the families arrive in our country, one for each child.”

If there are other organisations in the region that would be interested in more information about the Trauma Teddy program or would like to be involved with the Westbrook Trauma Teddy group, get in contact with Erica Paynter via email at ericapaynter@hotmail.com