Patching Party: Nicky’s Top Tips and Experience

Nicola Turner, Head Orthoptist at Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport, Wales, has extensive experience hosting patching parties. Here, she shares her top tips and hopes to inspire you to get involved.

Hi everyone! Ever thought about throwing a Patch Party? There’s no better time to dive in and start planning. At ABUHB, we’ve been hosting Patch Parties since 2019, and let me tell you—they’re an absolute blast! Our latest one in August 2024 was a huge hit, and I’m here to share my top tips so you can host your own.

What You’ll Need:

Venue:

Pick a big, open space—away from workplaces—because trust me, things can get loud (in the best way possible!).

Guests:

Invite your current patchers, recent graduates, kids starting treatment, and those struggling with glasses. Pro tip: Send invites with RSVPs so you’re ready for siblings tagging along.

Must-Haves:

Buckets of enthusiasm and energy.
A love for classic party games like:
- Pass the Parcel
- Musical Statues
- Sleeping Tigers
- Egg and Spoon Race
- Pass the Balloon

Food & Drinks:

Kids are happy with simple snacks—think juice boxes and crisps. Bonus: Reach out to local businesses like Dominos, Greggs, or Tesco well in advance. They’ve got charitable programs and love to help.

Prizes:

Grab some bubble wands, glow sticks, or fun colouring sheets. Affordable, cheerful, and perfect for little winners.

Party Prep:

Pass the Parcel: Wrap it up with sweet surprises in every layer.
Prizes: Make sure no one leaves empty-handed. Party bags are always loved!
Decorations: DIY hats, paper chains, bunting, balloons—get creative!
Music: Set the mood with a playlist and speakers.
Invitations: Design fun flyers and get those RSVPs rolling in.
Entertainers: Got a magician or clown on speed dial? Bring them in for extra laughs.

What Our Parents Are Saying:

Hearing from families makes it all worth it. Here’s what they’ve shared with us:

“Thank you so much for the Patch Party! Freyja had a blast, and it’s so wonderful seeing the kids feel less alone with their patches.”

“George didn’t want to come at first because he thought he’d be the only one. Walking into a room full of kids wearing patches and laughing made his day. Now, when people ask about the party, he says, ‘I’m not on my own.’”

“Emily is still talking about the Patch Party! Thanks for inviting her and Lucy—it meant the world to them.”

“When’s the next one?”

Throwing a Patch Party is one of the most rewarding things you can do. It’s not just about fun and games—it’s about building community, giving kids confidence, and showing families they’re not alone. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get planning!