John Lewis and Waitrose launch soft toy competition for children
John Lewis and Waitrose have launched a soft toy design competition for children as they look to raise funds for the NHS.
With children staying at home due to the covid-19 pandemic, the retailers are inviting them to fill their time by creatng a design for a “super-bear” cuddly toy that celebrates the spirit and bravery of frontline NHS healthcare workers.
The winning design will be turned into an exclusive Christmas toy that will be sold by Waitrose and John Lewis from October.
Martin George, marketing director for the John Lewis Partnership, said: “The acts of gratitude demonstrated by the public towards frontline workers, from the thousands of “thank you” pictures to Thursday evening clapping, shows how deep our nation’s love for the NHS goes. We’ve already been supporting the NHS and critical workers in a number of ways, but we want to make a lasting contribution that demonstrates our appreciation for those who are on the front line.
“We hope this competition will help inspire the nation’s children to put pencil to paper and encourage many to submit their creations, while helping us give something back to our wonderful NHS and frontline workers.”
The competition has marked the start of the John Lewis Partnership’s “Feel Good Friday” campaign which it hopes will raise people’s spirits during lockdown.
Every Friday, Waitrose and John Lewis will focus on one skill or pastime to help people enjoy a shared interest or learn something new. These will include a wide range of activities such as gardening, arts and crafts, baking, mindfulness and fitness.
