Our Story
Since 2007, TLC Teddies has been one of Durham Freemasons’ most visible and successful community initiatives, providing comfort and reassurance to children experiencing illness, injury, trauma or distress.
Working in partnership with Accident and Emergency Departments, Urgent Care Units and other healthcare providers across the Durham Freemasons area, the small distraction teddies are used by healthcare professionals to help calm distressed children at what can often be a frightening and uncertain time. By reducing anxiety and helping to build trust, the bears assist medical teams in assessing and treating children more quickly and effectively.
Each teddy carries a label stating “Donated by Local Freemasons”, providing a visible reminder of Freemasonry’s commitment to supporting local communities through practical acts of kindness. Funding for the scheme is raised entirely by Freemasons and is ring-fenced to ensure every donation directly supports the provision of TLC Teddies.
The initiative's impact is reflected in the many messages of thanks from parents, healthcare professionals and children themselves. These stories show how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in difficult moments.
Since its launch, more than 127,000 TLC Durham have been distributed Teddies across the region, helping to turn tears into smiles and providing comfort when it is needed most.
