Children at Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby will receive new toys as part of a project remembering young people whose lives were affected by online harms.
The donation will take place in memory of Kibi Wade, from Caistor, whose family raises awareness about online bullying and the need to safeguard young people. Kibi tragically took her own life in 2024. Her family say she suffered with her mental health, and had been the subject of bullying and online bullying.
Volunteers from Unspoken – the organisation behind the donation – and Kibi’s family will visit the hospital tomorrow morning (Saturday 22 August) as part of ‘A New Voice for Kindness’, an initiative aiming to deliver toys to 14 hospitals within 48 hours.
The toys, suitable for children from babies through to teenagers, will support patients on Rainforest Ward and across Family Services, helping play teams provide comfort, distraction and experiences.
The initiative was developed alongside 14 bereaved families. Each family nominated a hospital where their child received treatment, and will help to hand over the donations.
Michelle Gardner, Kibi’s stepmother, said: “Unspoken approached us about getting involved in this toy drop. It’s hard for children when they’re in hospital, so we feel grateful to be able to be part of this project. We have been raising awareness in Kibi’s memory through this and other events.
“In May, Kibi’s mum and I joined other bereaved parents at Downing Street to discuss action to safeguard young people. We hope to support and educate people on the dangers of social media for young people. If we could prevent just one death, then our campaign will be worthwhile.”
Atiq Rehman, Unspoken founder, said: “These are not just names on a T-shirt or photographs on a campaign. They are somebody’s child. They were loved, they had families, dreams and futures.
“We cannot change what these families have been through, but we can stand beside them. We can say their children’s names, honour their memories and turn unimaginable pain into something that brings kindness to another child.
“Every toy we hand over represents a smile created in the name of a child who should still be here. This is bigger than a toy drop. It is remembrance, awareness and a message to every bereaved family involved: you do not walk this journey alone.”
Paula Staines, Play Specialist, said: “The donation will be used for Rainforest Ward and any other areas within Family Services where more toys and play are needed to support children and patients. It is amazing, wonderful and incredibly thoughtful.”
Unspoken previously delivered toys to hospitals in York, Scarborough, Leeds, Birmingham and Manchester in 2024. This year’s project will again bring happiness to children receiving treatment, while creating a lasting tribute to young lives lost.
More information about Kibi’s story and how the family is raising awareness is available online.