BUSINESS chiefs at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have become one of the first supporters of the county’s new Urgent and Emergency Care Appeal launched by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity.
The charity is appealing to local businesses in the county to pledge to sponsor a space on the Thank You Wall which will be displayed as part of the new Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC) development at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
Organisations can choose from a variety of levels of support but all donations will make a huge difference, say health chiefs.
The charity is aiming to raise £50,000 to support improvements to patient care and experience at the UEC, which will include a relocated and expanded Emergency Department, a dedicated children’s emergency department, X-ray and other diagnostic facilities when it opens later this year.
Chamber CEO Sharon Smith visited the site for a behind the scenes tour of the new development where she met with Clare Bush, divisional director of Nursing for Urgent Care at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.
“Seeing the almost completed new Urgent and Emergency Care unit was both humbling and inspiring.” said Sharon.
“Speaking to Clare it was evident the environment and finishing touches were critical to improving how patients and relatives would feel, at a time of extreme crisis.
“Clare explained how communication at this crucial time is key for the specialist nursing team and we are proud to help and support making this happen.”
Sophie Burt, head of fundraising and community development at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity added: “We hope other businesses will be inspired to join the appeal and sponsor their own place on the Thank You Wall.
“With the support of the local community Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity will help our local NHS to create the very best environment for patients needing care.”
Businesses and organisations who would like to find out more can contact www.wahcharity.org or call 01905 768954. The new development is due to open this autumn.