A revamped garden at Hayward House palliative care unit, at Nottingham City Hospital, was officially opened on Tuesday 10th September – thanks to a fundraising appeal which has so far raised more than £1 million.
The £1.5 million Hayward House Appeal was launched by Nottingham Hospitals Charity in spring 2022, and runs until spring 2025.
Thanks to money generously donated by the local community, work has been completed on the Hayward House garden, to make it more accessible for patients and visitors – allowing them time and space away from the hospital environment at what can be an extremely difficult time.
The funding has helped create new pathways so that patients in wheelchairs and beds can now access this peaceful area. Money raised through the Hayward House Appeal will also fund ongoing services and support for patients, such as additional nursing posts, counselling, emotional support and complementary therapy, as well as a new front entrance to make the unit more welcoming for patients and visitors.
The garden was officially reopened on Tuesday 10th September by the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Carole McCulloch, who was joined by other supporters and staff from Hayward House.
Nigel Gregory, Chief Executive of Nottingham Hospitals Charity, said: “We are extremely grateful to all those who have donated to the Hayward House Appeal so far, to help make our vision for this garden a reality. This is just one part of our plans to support the Hayward House redevelopment, to make this a very special place for all the families and patients coming through the doors.
“We’ve been blown away by the support we’ve received from local businesses, community groups and individuals, as well as patients, family members and even staff at Hayward House, who have generously donated to the appeal.
“I’m thrilled to see the garden now reopen and so much more accessible for patients and visitors. We hope these improvements will make a real difference to all those who are cared for at Hayward House, by enabling them to enjoy this beautiful and tranquil space.”
Hayward House is a unique home-from-home environment, where patients with life-limiting illnesses, including those at the end of their life, are cared for by a team of specialist staff trained in palliative care.
For more information about the Hayward House Appeal, or to make a donation, please visit www.nottinghamhospitalscharity.org.uk/haywardhouse