Beach revamp to brighten children's hospital stays

Wolverhampton mayor wearing his chains of office stands besides a member of staff at the revamped garden at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton. She is standing at a podium and speaking into a microphoneImage source, Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust
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The mayor of Wolverhampton, Craig Collinswood, officially opened the facility on Wednesday

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A "drab" children's hospital garden has undergone a major makeover with a seaside theme following a fundraising appeal.

Children and their families visiting New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton can now experience an outdoor cinema screen and new play area with colourful murals.

Fundraising by the parent of a patient began in 2024, with a company specialising in industrial, commercial and educational refurbishments doing the work for free, the NHS trust running the hospital said.

"The transformation is incredible," said senior matron Kirsty Lewis.

"We must never underestimate the importance of play and being able to offer space away from treatment and observations for our patients and their families."

The colourful garden at the hospital. Planters are painted red and blue with murals on the walls. A hard floor has been put down with seating and new windows.Image source, Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust
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The revamped area includes brightly coloured play equipment and murals

Plans to revamp the space started after Jason and his wife Amee, who previously raised money for the charity, suggested the garden appeal, following a spell in the hospital over Christmas in 2023 with his young daughter Olivia, who was being treated for a genetic condition.

"The garden was dated and drab but now it looks fantastic and is a space for everybody – children and their families," he said.

Members of hospital staff wear dark blue uniforms, with the Mayor of Wolverhampton second left in a grey suit and wearing his chains of office. The are standing in the revamped area which is painted mainly blueImage source, Mayor of Wolverhampton
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Hospital staff joined the mayor for the opening

The area was officially opened by the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Craig Collinswood, on Wednesday.

The beach mural was painted by Birmingham artist Mr Murals.

"We know this special space will provide a wonderful environment for our patients and families," added Amanda Winwood from Your RWTC, the registered charity of The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust.

"It's actually quite emotional to stop and reflect on how much hard work has gone into this."

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