Norfolk church backs Raggedy Doll appeal 

International singer songwriter, Philippa Hanna, is helping to champion self-esteem in children through The Raggedy Doll Foundation and with the help of a group of women from Mulbarton Church in South Norfolk. Sandie Shirley reports
 
The acclaimedSheffieldmusician who is touring with 2014 Britain’s Got Talent winners, Collabro, in the new year, took centre stage at Mulbarton Village Hall on November 7 to tell out her restoration story from a broken teenager to a woman of faith with the help of her hit song, ‘Raggedy Doll’ 
 
Clutching a handful of “raggedy dolls” sewn in love by the Norfolk Christian congregation during a church away weekend, Philippa is another step nearer in extending God’s message of love to children in hospices, hospitals and other places of need
 
Tania Davies, who helped make some of the dolls, said: “Every stitch was like a stitch of love by the ladies, knowing that these dolls will go to children to give them hope” 
 
The Raggedy Doll Foundation – a non-profit, community organisation - was launched to promote healthy self-esteem in children of all ages, after Raggedy Doll – was a particular hit with children, explains Philippa. The Foundation encourages the making of hand-sewn dolls during community workshops at churches, schools, clubs and organisations to be given to children with a message of self-worth
 
“We want every child to feel valuable and special,” says the international performer, who raised the Mulbarton village hall roof when her melodic medley included the 2010 composition about her beloved raggedy girlhood doll that is a metaphor for God’s love
 
By bringing people together for just a few hours – during a coffee morning, home group or alternative celebration perhaps – loving communities can encourage children in their worlds, explains Philippa
 
For patterns, resources and inspiration for hosting workshops: www.raggedydoll.co.uk

Pictured above is Philippa Hanna in Mulbarton, Norfolk with some of the dolls stitched locally