Red Cross has been supplying handmade Trauma Teddies to the ambulance service and local hospitals for many years so they can be given to children in their time of need.

Local Red Cross member Coral Lorimer said the branch had lost many of its knitters so there was now a need for new knitters to help keep up supply to Gunnedah Ambulance Station and Gunnedah District Hospital.

Gunnedah Ambulance Station officer Scott Clarke said the teddies were helpful in traumatic situations.

“They probably put a smile on the face of a kid that might not be there,” he said.

“We use them on virtually every small child that we come across and sometimes they just make that tiny bit of difference to make the kids feel better.”

Mr Clarke said he had gave a teddy to a child as recently as two days ago.

“We usually always have a trauma teddy up our sleeve,” he said.

The paramedic said Careflight bears were often donated to the ambulance station as well.

Ms Lorimer said the Trauma Teddies must be made to specific guidelines outlined by Red Cross, with patterns and instructions available.

Those interested in helping can phone Coral Lorimer on 6742 0085 or 0488 420 085. For more information or to join the Trauma Teddy community, visit Trauma Teddy Corner - Australian Red Cross on Facebook.