Words by Smiley Team
The hospital arrival experience for poorly children in Leeds has been transformed, thanks to an exciting project led by Leeds Hospitals Charity, in collaboration with local businesses and national charities.
Now, from the moment children and their families walk through the entrance of the hospital, they'll be immersed in a rainforest-themed reception area, complete with feature lighting, brightly-coloured flooring and interactive activities to help create a more welcoming environment for everyone.
Construction company, Balfour Beatty, one of Leeds Hospital Charity’s corporate partners have led on the refurbishment and upgrade, generously donating their time and materials to help bring the project to life.
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The entrance includes the latest technology, funded by national children’s charity Starlight, to distract and engage patients and their families. This innovative technology includes touch-free motion sensor games, a virtual fish tank and a floor projector to complete the immersive experience.
Lisa Beaumont, therapeutic and specialised play manager at Leeds Children’s Hospital, said: “Children and young people coming into the hospital are delighted with the transformation and it is a joy to see the smiles on their faces.
"This refurbishment will make a real difference to the wellbeing of the children and young people we care for, helping them feel like they’re coming to a safe, fun place, and transforming what can be quite an uncertain experience into a very positive one.”
As one of the UK’s largest specialist children’s hospitals offering a wide range of treatment and care for children from birth to young adulthood and beyond, this transformation will benefit around 250,000 children who pass through the Clarendon Wing entrance each year.
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Esther Wakeman, CEO of Leeds Hospitals Charity, added: “We’re so proud to lead such an exciting project which will make a real difference to the experience of some of the youngest and most vulnerable patients in Leeds and their families. None of this would be possible without the support of our donors and the generous help of all the wonderful organisations involved.”
The new space also showcases the real difference that charitable funding can make to the NHS, and how the support of people across Leeds can enable the creation of patient-centred spaces designed to support the delivery of world-class care for children and young people.
By donating to Leeds Hospitals Charity, you can help support projects to support NHS staff, patients, and families across our local hospital in Leeds.
Find out more and donate at www.leedshospitalscharity.org.uk.
