Doncaster businesses help local NHS charity raise more than £160,000 through festive fundraising campaign

Since launching in 2020, Our Shining Stars has become one of the charity's most successful annual fundraising campaigns, bringing together businesses, schools, community groups and individuals to support patients, families and NHS colleagues across Doncaster and Bassetlaw.

Each Christmas, beautiful illuminated stars shine brightly across Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital and Montagu Hospital, as well as in Bawtry, thanks to the support of Visit Bawtry.

Over the past six years, the campaign has received incredible support from Doncaster's business community, with organisations including GXO Logistics, Doncaster College, Harrison College, RJ Electrical, Vinci Construction, Bermar Building and Albemarle Homes among those who have helped the charity make a difference.

From large national employers to smaller independent businesses, their generosity has helped raise vital funds to support projects that go above and beyond NHS funding, improving hospital environments, enhancing patient experiences and supporting the wellbeing of NHS colleagues.

The campaign has also become an opportunity for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to their local community, celebrate their teams and give something back to the hospitals that care for their employees, customers and loved ones.

Sarah Dunning, Fundraising Manager at Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity, said:

"Reaching more than £160,000 through Our Shining Stars is an incredible achievement, and it's one that simply wouldn't have been possible without the generosity of our local business community.

"We've been so fortunate to have some fantastic businesses support us over the years, many of whom return year after year, and it's lovely to see how much the campaign means to them and their teams.

"What's particularly special is that businesses of all sizes have been involved. Whether it's a large organisation sponsoring several stars or a smaller business coming together to fundraise for one, every single contribution helps us make a difference.

"Our hospitals are at the heart of our communities, caring for thousands of people every year. Many of the people receiving that care are the employees, customers, friends and families of the businesses supporting us, so there's something really meaningful about seeing our local business community come together to give back.

"We'd love to build on the success of the past six years and welcome even more Doncaster businesses into our Shining Stars family this Christmas."

For 2026, businesses are once again being invited to sponsor a star, with packages starting from £300.

Alongside supporting their local NHS, businesses receive recognition through the charity's website, social media channels and staff magazine, which reaches more than 7,000 NHS colleagues across the Trust.

Businesses can also use their sponsorship as an opportunity to bring colleagues together, whether through workplace fundraising, festive activities or simply celebrating their star shining brightly on their local hospital.

Funds raised through the campaign have contributed towards a wide range of charitable projects, helping the charity provide additional equipment, enhance hospital environments and create more comfortable, welcoming spaces for patients and families.

As the charity prepares for another festive season, it hopes that Doncaster's business community will continue to play a leading role in helping its hospitals shine.

Could your business help make the next £160,000 possible?

To find out more about sponsoring a star this Christmas, visit www.dbthcharity.co.uk/our-shining-stars/ or contact the charity team at dbth.charity@nhs.net.