A new charity hub has opened at the John Radcliffe Hospital to boost donations for good causes.
Oxford Hospitals Charity, which raises funds to make a difference across Oxfordshire hospitals, now has a fully staffed space to talk to more supporters, hospital staff and patients and help those interested in donating or fundraising.
The new hub is located at the main entrance to Oxford Children’s Hospital and provides a cheery welcome to patients and their families as they arrive.
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A pink ribbon was cut by nine-year-old, Kaiden Edwards, who is a patient on Kamran’s Ward and Professor Meghana Pandit CEO of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, together with members of the charity team and hospital staff, to mark the official opening.
Jamie French, who is leading the project for the charity, said: “We are so excited to launch our new charity hub and know that this will really help spread the word about the vital work that Oxford Hospitals Charity does in our hospitals.
“We’re now here every week day, with a big smile, to tell people more about the charity and make it quick and easy for them to donate, find out about our fundraising events or simply learn more about the work this special charity does to help our hospitals.
“We’ll be handing out activities for young patients to keep them entertained and distracted while waiting for appointments and are ready to meet hospital staff who want to have a chat about how the charity can help their areas.
“Having charity staff on-site, working alongside some wonderful volunteers, will allow us to provide even more support into the hospitals and respond more quickly to needs as they arise.
(Image: Oxford Mail) “We are incredibly grateful to NHS Charities Together, for their kind grant to help us bring the hub to life and The Hospital Company for kindly sharing the space with us, as well as staff across Oxford University Hospitals for their support and encouragement.
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“Over the past few weeks, we have been getting everything ready and are now thrilled to be able to fully open our doors. It’s really exciting.”
Professor Meghana Pandit, CEO of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said: “Our hospital charity does so much good across our organisation, and I am delighted to see this new charity hub open.
"It will help spread the word even further about the difference Oxford Hospitals Charity makes for patients and staff.”
Douglas Graham, CEO Of the charity added: “We have wanted to have our own space in the heart of our hospitals for a long time, so this really is a special moment. We know that having a team here on hand will make a real difference in so many ways and it’s lovely to see what a bright and friendly welcome the hub now offers.”
The new charity hub, which launched on Monday, will be open 9am – 3pm weekdays. Staff, patients and visitors are invited to come and say hello.
During the opening week there will be a series of activities and events including origami and crafting on Tuesday, a performance from our music on wards team on Wednesday, and competitions for patients, visitors and staff.
Find out more at www.hospitalcharity.co.uk/hub
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