CHILDREN who have to stay at the Royal Berkshire Hospital will be in for a happier time as the playroom will be upgraded thanks to a donation from a Reading-based IT distribution company.
Westcoast has given the Royal Berks Charity funding to transform the space on the children’s ward, giving it its first makeover in 20 years.
The paediatric team, led by matron Claire Lord, have a vision that they say will revolutionise the current play area to better utilise the space on the paediatric wards to cater for younger patients and improve their hospital experience.
Ms Lord said: “The playroom is around 20-years-old so, as you might imagine, is fairly dated, old fashioned and in desperate need of modernising.
“This includes creating a welcoming space for young patients to relax and forget about the routine of being in hospital.
“We want to provide a less clinical and more homely environment; the play area is considered a ‘safe’ zone away from clinical treatment, and we want to ensure it is inviting and immersive.”
There are two wards for youngsters at the RBH: Lion and Dolphin, and is suitable for under 16s who have a range of medical conditions, including ENT, orthopaedic and shared care oncology. On average, the team on Lion and Dolphin care for 80 new patients every week.
Now they will have a chance to enjoy a nicer environment.
Ms Lord said: “We are incredibly grateful to Westcoast for their amazing donation and would like to say a huge thank you to them for helping to make our vision become a reality.”
And Westcoast, which is based in Theale, said it was happy to be helping.
Its marketing director, Jess Tyley, said: “As a local business Westcoast is pleased to be able to support the Royal Berks Charity in making this project come to life.
“We hope the new children’s playroom will make being in hospital a little more enjoyable for the young patients and their families for many years to come.”
