Philanthropy, trusts and foundations
Philanthropic giving makes a real and lasting difference for Sheffield Children’s, funding pioneering research, specialist equipment, innovative projects, and supportive environments that go beyond what the NHS can provide.
On 15 November 1876, Sheffield Children’s Hospital opened its doors as an ‘infirmary for children’ in Brightmore House on Brook Hill, founded by doctor William Jackson Cleaver, architect John Dodsley Webster and solicitor Henry Vickers. It wasn’t far from the location of Sheffield Children’s Hospital today, and they rented the site for £63 a year.
“An infirmary for children was opened yesterday at Brightmore House, 222-224 Brook Hill, the honorary medical officers being Dr. Cleaver and Dr. O’Keefe.” From Sheffield Daily Telegraph, November 16, 1876
From that day to this, our purpose has remained the same: to create a healthier future for children and young people.
By becoming a philanthropist, you too can make a real and lasting difference, funding pioneering research, specialist equipment, innovative projects, and supportive environments that will carry your name for years to come.
Whether you join our Children’s Champions programme, attend one of our exclusive events, or simply want to learn more, we would love to hear from you.
Join our Children’s Champions, an exclusive membership club for Sheffield Children’s. Our Children’s Champions donate monthly or annually, funding specialist equipment, vital research and new facilities for our patients and families.
How your support helps
Your support can fund exactly what matters most to you, whether that’s a specific piece of equipment, a service, or a project close to your heart. Every major gift is directed towards an area of greatest need or a cause that matters to you, and below are two recent examples of what philanthropy has helped make possible at Sheffield Children’s.
Ultrasound Machine for Radiology Department (£70,000)
Our Lifetime Champions Graham & Sue Royle funded a cutting-edge ultrasound machine that allows echochardiographers to diagnose and monitor a wide range of conditions quickly, safely and without radiation. This machine gives sharper images, faster results and greater comfort for our young patients than previous machines, enhancing the quality and efficiency of care we can provide.
Infusion pumps (£3,500)
With these compact infusion pumps children receiving chemotherapy for cancer and leukemia can now receive their treatment at home instead of having to be in the hospital. The pumps are backpack size, helping children live as normal a life as possible whilst receiving treatment and easing anxieties by being around home comforts through the most difficult times. 13 of these pumps were funded by our wonderful supporters at the Winter Ball in 2025!
Philanthropy events
Clay shoot
19 September 2026
Join us for the next Charity Clay Shoot at Hilltop Farm. Kindly hosted by the Kilner Family, we are heading back to Hilltop Farm, to celebrate 150 years of Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.
Christmas Cracker
20 November 2026
Join us for the next Christmas Cracker Lunch and Shopping Event raising money for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity!
Trusts and Foundations
Trusts and foundations play a vital role in helping Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity fund projects that go beyond NHS provision. Through grants from charitable trusts, foundations and other grant-making organisations, we can support pioneering research, specialist equipment, enhanced patient environments and innovative programmes that make a real difference to children, young people and their families.
We work closely with funders to match their interests with opportunities where their support can have the greatest impact, building lasting partnerships that help transform care at Sheffield Children’s.
If you’re a charitable trust or foundation looking to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch with our team to discuss current funding opportunities and how your support could help create a healthier future for every child.
Supporting transformational projects
Our most recent major appeal, The Spark – the National Centre for Child Health Technology – has been made possible thanks in part to the generous support of trusts and foundations. Opening later in 2026, The Spark will bring together world-leading clinicians, researchers, industry partners and families to develop and test pioneering technologies that will transform children’s healthcare, both in Sheffield and beyond.
The appeal has been generously supported by organisations including The Charles Wolfson Charitable Trust and the Garfield Weston Foundation, whose investment is helping to bring this ambitious vision to life. Together with many other generous funders, they are helping to create a place where innovation can improve the lives of children and young people for generations to come.
FAQs
What is classed as a Major Gift?
A donation of £3k or over would be classed as a major gift and supporters will therefore be looked after by our Philanthropy team.
How will my major gift make a difference?
Every major gift is directed towards an area of greatest need or a cause that matters to you. Our Philanthropy Team will work with you to ensure your donation has a meaningful impact, and we’ll keep you updated on the difference your generosity is making. In some cases we may be able to give the opportunity of a visit to see your support in action.
Can I donate over several years?
Absolutely. Many of our supporters choose to pledge a major gift over a number of years, allowing them to make an even greater impact while spreading the cost of their donation.
Can my company or family make a major gift together
Yes. We welcome gifts from individuals, families, trusts, foundations and businesses.
Who can I speak to about making a major gift?
Our Philanthropy Team is here to answer your questions, discuss giving opportunities and help you find a way to support the hospital that aligns with your interests and philanthropic goals. You can contact us at philanthropy@sheffieldchildrens.org