For several years, the team at Build-A-Bear Workshop in Braehead have been quietly doing something extraordinary.
Behind the scenes, they have been creating special bears for families who experience the devastating loss of a child. These bears are donated to hospitals and mortuaries, where they can be given to children who pass away — a small but deeply meaningful comfort, ensuring that no child is alone.
This December, the Braehead team decided to take that kindness even further. Instead of holding their usual Secret Santa gift exchange, staff agreed to donate the money they would have spent on presents to charity.
By pooling their contributions, the team raised enough to buy 34 Build-A-Bear cubs for Brightest Star, a charity that supports families affected by baby and child loss. But the generosity didn’t stop there.
When Brightest Star came to collect the bears, they were met with a surprise: Build-A-Bear’s head office staff had quietly added to the total, bringing the final number of bears donated to 48.
Each bear represents far more than a toy. They are a symbol of love, compassion and remembrance — bringing comfort in moments where words simply cannot. For grieving families, these bears can become a lasting connection, a reminder that their child is held, cared for and never forgotten.
It is a gift of immeasurable value, born entirely from kindness.
Well done to everyone at Build-A-Bear Braehead — a team whose generosity continues to make a difference at the very hardest of times. 💔
Paisley Photographs 