THURSDAY, 11 DECEMBER, 2025

PHOTOS ATTACHED: STAFF AND PATIENTS JOINED SANTA AT THE SWITCH ON AT NINEWELLS HOSPITAL AND VISITS TO TAYSIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND ROYAL VICTORIA HOSPITAL.

Jingle Bells at Ninewells

NHS Tayside staff, patients, and visitors embraced the festive spirit today (Thursday 11 December) as the much-loved Santa Claus made his annual visit to Ninewells Hospital.

We were delighted to welcome Santa this year with the addition of his elf to switch on our Christmas tree lights at the hospital. Santa was joined by children from Tayside Children’s Hospital and young visitors, who excitedly helped him switch on the tree lights, spreading joy throughout the concourse.

The celebration kicked off with Santa encouraging those gathered round the tree to sing-along to some festive favourites, including Jingle Bells and When Santa got Stuck up the Chimney. Father Christmas and his elf then spent time speaking to staff, patients and visitors on the concourse assuring them that they were all on his ‘nice list’ before heading to Tayside Children’s Hospital.

The children and staff at Tayside Children’s Hospital were thrilled that despite it being a very busy time of year, Santa was able to leave the North Pole and visit the hospital and hand out gifts to the children and young people. Santa’s cheerful ‘Ho Ho Ho’ brought a happy smile to the faces of both patients and staff alike. This year he also made a stop at Royal Victoria Hospital and Roxburghe House to meet patients and staff.

Interim Chair of Tayside NHS Board, Carole Wilkinson said, “I was delighted to join our staff and patients for this cherished annual event. Thank you so much to Santa and his elf for taking the time out of their busy schedule, especially at this time of year.

Christmas in hospital can be tough for children and their families and so Santa’s visit to the children’s wards is particularly special. I think days like today just bring the magic and the smiles and the joy to patients and families at a time when it can be hard to find.”

Contact:

Nisha Pawar

NHS Tayside Communications

07483 354741