Families staying overnight on Ward C5 will now benefit from improved comfort and support thanks to a new reclining sleep chair, funded through a heartfelt initiative.
The chair cost £1,565 and was purchased by our charity – The Health Tree Foundation – following a wish put in by staff member Lucy Talbot. It provides a practical solution for relatives who want to remain close to loved ones during their hospital stay, offering a place to rest properly instead of relying on standard seating. Funded through in-memory donations following the passing of Lucy’s mother, Rachel Mary Russell, the chair is already helping enhance the experience for families at difficult times.
Previously, relatives staying on the ward had limited options for rest, often relying on hard plastic chairs. The new reclining chair can lay flat like a bed, allowing families to get much-needed sleep while continuing to provide emotional support and companionship. This small but meaningful improvement helps reduce stress and fatigue for relatives, enabling them to better support patients through their care and recovery.
The idea was inspired by Lucy’s own experience when her mother was admitted to hospital. Her sisters stayed with their mum around the clock, facing long hours without suitable facilities. Determined to create a positive outcome from a difficult experience, Lucy and her family chose to fund a chair in her mother’s memory.
Lucy, a Children’s Therapy Administrator in Community and Therapy Services, said: “Both my sisters stayed on the ward with my mum, sleeping on hard plastic chairs – it was tough. Rather than flowers, we decided to fund a chair so families can stay with their relatives and be able to sleep properly.”
Alyshea Gibson, C5 Ward Manager, said: “It was a complete surprise to us and it will make a huge difference to patients and families, especially those receiving end of life care or with vulnerabilities. They can be present and near but a lot more comfortable at the bedside. Thank you to our ‘chairy’ godmother and The Health Tree Foundation.” The introduction of the chair reflects ongoing efforts to improve patient and family experience across wards, recognising the important role loved ones play. Lucy hopes to fundraise for additional chairs in future, ensuring even more families can benefit from improved facilities and support during their time in hospital.