Giving Tree returns to bring festive joy to children in care

Norfolk County Council welcomes back the Giving Tree appeal for Christmas 2025, a popular initiative that brings the magic of books to children in care across the county. 

Hosted at Waterstones, Castle Street, Norwich, the Giving Tree is decorated with tags, each representing a child and the book or genre they'd love to receive. Shoppers can select a tag, purchase the chosen book, and hand it in at the till. Norfolk County Council will then wrap and deliver the gifts in time for Christmas Day. 

The cherished Christmas initiative, designed to bring joy to the county's children in care, has been a favourite among customers, with thousands of books purchased since it began nearly 20 years ago. 

The Giving Tree is organised by Norfolk Virtual School, which supports the education of all Norfolk children in care. The scheme aims to ensure every child in care receives a book for Christmas that encourages a love of reading. 

Councillor Penny Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Children's Services at Norfolk County Council, said: "The Giving Tree is a fantastic initiative that brings the joy of reading to children of all ages who are living in care. As ever, we are completely grateful to everyone who help make Christmas special for hundreds of children over the years." 

Ben Richardson, Manager of Waterstones Norwich, said: "I am delighted that the Giving Tree is in place again for 2025. It is always the highlight of the year, and something that our customers really love contributing to."  

The tree is now in store. Books need to be purchased by Sunday 7 December, to ensure they reach children in time for Christmas.