Dudley Group NHS Charity funds playroom refurbishments

Funded through charitable funds and community grants, the makeover sees the playroom transformed with a fun underwater theme.

The playroom has an arts and crafts area and space for imaginative role play (Image: Supplied)

The space is equipped with activities, toys, storage space, a wet area, and a gallery where children's art can be displayed, as well as a reading corner for quiet time.

Head of children's services Karen Anderson said: "Hundreds of children use this room every year, which is why we wanted to use the funding available to create a dedicated place for them to engage in play therapy with our health play specialists, helping them deal with the emotional stress of being unwell and not being able to go home."

The redesign was informed by young patients, their families and hospital staff, who gave feedback to specialist healthcare interior design company Grosvenor Interiors.

The hospital’s estates team, PFI partners Summit Healthcare, and Mitie also supported the room with refurbishments.

Diane Wake, chief executive of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, officially opened the playroom on July 29.

She said: "The new playroom will make children’s experience of coming to hospital a more positive one, helping the whole family to cope during the long and emotional journey they face through surgery and treatments."

Nithee Patel, head of fundraising at the Dudley Group NHS Charity, said: "We would like to say a huge thank you to our donors, supporters, and the NHS staff who have worked so hard to make this refurbishment a reality.

"Hospital visits are particularly challenging for children, and having a dedicated, private space for young patients to play or take part in activities will make a big difference to their stay."

The Dudley Group NHS Charity is still fundraising for soft furnishings and toys for the room.

Anyone interested in contributing is encouraged to visit the JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/c2playroom.