Published on 9 December 2019
A bus shelter, breast pumps and board games are just some of the items donated by the Friends of William Harvey Hospital this year.
The charity has spent almost £190,000 on items and projects for the Ashford hospital over the year, thanks to profits from its shop and fundraising activities.
The cheapest item was a hairdryer for patients on Kings A2 and B wards, at £11.99, while the most expensive was contributions towards the intensive care unit’s sensory garden, at £25,000 plus £17,888.48 to install a ramp and widen the entrance.
Jill Barringer, the Friends’ manager, said: “We are thrilled to be putting back so much into the William Harvey Hospital and grateful to everyone who has supported us over the year.
“Each and every item will make a real difference to patients and staff at the hospital, whether it’s a sleeper chair or comfort packs for relatives who need to be close to family members who are sadly coming to the end of their lives, or medical equipment to help our staff treat and diagnose people faster.
“As we look forward to 2020, we’d like to remind staff they can continue to apply for items of equipment that will make life easier for staff, patients and visitors.”
Some of the more unusual items on the list include an MRI compatible infusion pump, to allow patients to continue to receive intravenous drugs while they are in the scanner, and an ultrasound device to diagnose liver problems.
The Friends have also funded a range of projects, including £12,665 for a drug and medication preparation room for the cardiology wards, and improvements to the waiting area for children who are having operations.
Another £10,621 was given for a dedicated children’s therapy treatment room, while staff on the children’s ward received £50 for wellbeing and relaxation sessions to help them unwind after a stressful shift.
Much of the money was raised in the Friends’ shop at the hospital, which recorded a turnover of £1million last year.
A festive raffle on Wednesday, 11 December will add to their coffers, with a top prize of £100 on offer. Tickets will be available between 10am and 4pm and the draw will take place at 4pm in the hospital foyer.
And the team are also donating hundreds of presents who will be in hospital at Christmas, with volunteers gathering to wrap the gifts at Willesborough Church on 23 December.
More volunteers are always welcome – for more information pop into the shop, call 07596 519455 or visit www.friendsofthewilliamharvey.co.uk
