A revamped garden at Hayward House palliative care unit, at Nottingham City Hospital, was officially opened yesterday (Tuesday 10th September) – thanks to a fundraising appeal which has so far raised more than £1 million.
The £1.5 million Hayward House Appeal was launched by Nottingham Hospitals Charity in spring 2022, and runs until spring 2025.
Thanks to money generously donated by the local community, work has been completed on the Hayward House garden, to make it more accessible for patients and visitors – allowing them time and space away from the hospital environment at what can be an extremely difficult time.
The funding has helped create new pathways so that patients in wheelchairs and beds can now access this peaceful area. Money raised through the Hayward House Appeal will also fund ongoing services and support for patients, such as additional nursing posts, counselling, emotional support and complementary therapy, as well as a new front entrance to make the unit more welcoming for patients and visitors.
The garden was officially reopened on Tuesday 10th September by the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Carole McCulloch, who was joined by other supporters and staff from Hayward House.
Nigel Gregory, Chief Executive of Nottingham Hospitals Charity, said: “We are extremely grateful to all those who have donated to the Hayward House Appeal so far, to help make our vision for this garden a reality. This is just one part of our plans to support the Hayward House redevelopment, to make this a very special place for all the families and patients coming through the doors.
“We’ve been blown away by the support we’ve received from local businesses, community groups and individuals, as well as patients, family members and even staff at Hayward House, who have generously donated to the appeal.
“I’m thrilled to see the garden now reopen and so much more accessible for patients and visitors. We hope these improvements will make a real difference to all those who are cared for at Hayward House, by enabling them to enjoy this beautiful and tranquil space.”
Hayward House is a unique home-from-home environment, where patients with life-limiting illnesses, including those at the end of their life, are cared for by a team of specialist staff trained in palliative care.
More than 1,000 patients are treated at the centre, at City Hospital, each year, including in outpatients clinics, on the inpatient unit, and at a special day therapy centre.
Sarah Radcliffe, Head of Service for Palliative Care & Lead nurse for Palliative and End of Life at Nottingham Hospitals, said:
“Hayward House provides holistic care for patients who are in need of palliative and end of life care, as well as their families and loved ones. These improvements to the Hayward House garden help us go above and beyond for our patients and their families, by providing them with a safe and calming space, away from the busy ward environment, and allowing them to spend time in nature during what might be their final days.
“We’re really pleased that the garden is now accessible to all patients and visitors, including those with mobility issues, and know this will have a positive impact on many of our patients. Thank you to everyone who has donated to the Hayward House Appeal, to make this possible.
“We’re now looking forward to the next stage of the unit’s redevelopment, with a new entrance being created, to provide a better experience for patients and families coming to the unit.”
Colette Farley, whose mother Margaret Farley – known as Angela – was treated at Hayward House, said:
“My mum received such loving care at Hayward House – the staff there make it a beautiful place, and it’s wonderful to know that patients now have better access to the equally beautiful garden area.
“It’s wonderful to have a calm oasis right outside when you’re going through such a difficult time. The improved accessibility will make a huge difference, as patients will be able to go out and enjoy some quality time with their loved ones outdoors. I think being able to connect with nature will make such a difference for patients at the end of their lives.”
For more information about the Hayward House Appeal, or to make a donation, please visit www.nottinghamhospitalscharity.org.uk/haywardhouse
