Hospital Staff Courtyard Opened Thanks to Community Funding

Staff at Staffordshire’s largest hospital can now access a new wellbeing courtyard thanks to the generosity of the local community and the Denise Coates Foundation.

UHNM Charity has funded the renovation of a previously unused courtyard area at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, providing staff with a tranquil area to relax and escape the busy demands of clinical life.   

The courtyard, located in the hospital’s Lyme Building features covered seating and an array of plants and will provide staff with an area for both quiet reflection and mealtime breaks.  

Lisa Thomson, Director of Communications and UHNM Charity, said: “I am delighted that UHNM Charity has been able to fund the opening of this fantastic new facility for our staff who continue to work tirelessly in challenging circumstances. The courtyard will provide our staff with the opportunity to spend time in a peaceful and tranquil environment, away from their normal clinical setting, improving their mental health and wellbeing.”    

“We are grateful to our staff and local communities who donated and fundraised for our Staff Wellbeing Appeal last year and to Denise Coates Foundation for their generosity.”

Works were also funded by a grant from NHS Charities Together’s Covid-19 appeal.

Additional facilities at County Hospital in Stafford are due to be completed in the coming weeks.

Ro Vaughan, Director of Human Resources at University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM), added: “It’s vital our staff have the opportunity to switch off and rest, especially whilst we continue to see through the pandemic within our hospitals.” 

If you would like to fundraise for UHNM Charity visit www.uhnmcharity.org.uk for more information, or call 01782 676444 to speak to one of the UHNM Charity team.