Patients and staff can relax in the garden at North Walsham hospital thanks to new furniture provided by its Friends group.
A selection of picnic tables and benches have been bought and installed in the grounds, mounted on new paved bases in a £10,000 scheme, which also involved extended pathways funded by the Friends.
It means patients can sit and enjoy the patio and garden behind the wards, either on their own or with visitors.
Staff, who have been working long shifts in full protective equipment to deal with Covid patients, can also spend their breaks outdoors to grab some much needed fresh air.
Friends chairman Keith Jarvis said: “We are delighted to have provided the furniture and have had very positive feedback from staff about how much it is appreciated by them and patients.
“As with all our work, the project was paid for using money donated by the public – so we would also like to thank everyone who has supported us.”
The Friends, who provide extras to improve patient and staff welfare at the War Memorial Hospital, have also recently bought radios for the wards, shaving mirrors for patients and are planning other projects ranging from an overnight room for visitors, and some special recliner chairs to a coffee and tea kitty for staff.
Recent donations include £160 from Antingham Parochial Church Council and £83 from Trunch Knitters and Stitchers’ Easter sale.
If you would like to support the work of the Friends, make a donation, leave a legacy, or get involved please visit the website www.northwalshamhospitalfriends.org.uk
Picture (credit Richard Batson) Friends committee members and staff trying out one of the new picnic benches
