While many families are decorating their trees and wrapping last-minute presents, Halifax based founder of Santa’s Magic Chimney, Martina Woodworth, is delivering something far more powerful to those who need it most this Christmas: hope and magic. Thousands of children in the UK[1] spending time in hospital over the festive period, and Martina is determined to make sure as many of them as possible still feel the wonder of Christmas. The former specialist advisory teacher has spent decades supporting children with social, emotional and mental health needs and created Santa’s Magic Chimney as a calming family ritual for her own children. This year, Martina has taken that ritual beyond the living room and into the places where Christmas can feel completely out of reach. Delivered in partnership with Jingles All The Way CIC and supported by volunteers, Santa’s Magic Chimney has been appearing in children’s wards, family accommodation and hostels so that children who are not at home this Christmas still get a moment of wonder. Each handcrafted, elf sized chimney becomes the heart of a simple December tradition where children write letters, post them “through the flames” to Santa, and end the day with a moment of connection. It is designed to slow everything down, help regulate big feelings, and remind children that they are safe, loved and remembered, wherever they are. To date, Santa’s Magic Chimney has been delivered to Coventry Children’s Hospital with support from Liz Baitson BEM of High Net Connect, North Tees Hospital and James…
