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Harrogate care residents join hat knitting appeal for newborn babies

Monday, 18 May 2026 11:37

Knitters at Hampden House care home in Harrogate.

Care residents in Harrogate have joined a community appeal to make hats for newborn babies at Harrogate District Hospital's maternity unit.

Hampden House care home has launched a Knit & Natter group after hearing that the maternity unit needs more than 1,000 knitted hats for babies born at the hospital.

Residents have been given patterns, wool and knitting needles, with staff also joining in to help the group produce as many hats as possible for the appeal.

The activity has already proved popular, bringing residents together for regular sessions while giving them a way to support babies and families in their local community.

Laura Newall, manager at Hampden House, said:

“This has been such a lovely project for our residents to be part of. Many of them have knitted for years, so it has been wonderful to see them using those skills for something that will help newborn babies and families here in Harrogate.

“The group has also created a real sense of purpose. Residents are chatting, sharing memories and helping each other with patterns, while knowing that every hat they make will go to a tiny baby who needs it.”

Hampden House is encouraging residents, staff, relatives and members of the local community to take part, with wool, needles and patterns available from reception.

Mrs Yeaman, 91, a resident at Hampden House, said:

“I used to knit a lot, so it has been lovely to pick it up again. We all enjoy sitting together and seeing the hats take shape.

"Knowing they will be used by tiny babies at Harrogate Maternity Unit makes it feel very worthwhile.”

Anyone who would like to support the appeal can contact Hampden House on 01423 566 964.

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