Sharing the joy of reading across Nottingham’s Hospitals

This World Book Day, Nottingham Hospitals Charity is encouraging everyone to celebrate the power of stories and the joy of reading. As part of our recent Joyful January ballot, we’ve been spreading smiles by delivering special book bundles to areas across Nottingham’s hospitals, replenishing waiting rooms and ward spaces with brand-new books for patients, visitors and parents to enjoy.

The books were kindly donated by local businesses over the festive season, and our Charity team worked to ensure these thoughtful gifts reached areas that may not have received Christmas donations. By doing so, we hope to bring comfort and entertainment to as many patients as possible during their hospital stay.

One of the areas we made a special delivery to was Ward B47 at Queen’s Medical Centre, which cares for elderly patients and patients living with dementia. 

Alongside a selection of novels, short stories, activity books and sticker books, we were also able to provide a range of engaging games and activities designed to be stimulating and tactile. These included arts and crafts materials, as well as group and individual games such as table-top badminton and table tennis.

Another area we visited was Ward E17, which provides specialist care for paediatric renal patients. Many of these young patients spend long hours on dialysis, so we delivered a wide-ranging bundle of books to help keep them, and their parents, entertained and engaged during their time on the ward.

And our work with the power of books doesn’t stop there. Thanks to your support, and in partnership with Kidney Research UK and Sheffield Kidney Patients, we’ve been able to provide extra-special books to help young patients prepare for life-changing kidney transplant surgery. Designed especially for patients at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, these beautifully illustrated guides feature age-appropriate activities, practical advice and gentle reassurance every step of the way. They even include a fun map for children to draw their journey home from hospital! 

Chris Beyga from Kidney Research UK said: “We wanted to offer support to families during what can be a very stressful time. These children have often been through so much already. The team at Get Better Books worked closely with Nottingham Children’s Hospital to create this fantastic guide for children, siblings and parents.”

A book bundle was also delivered to Ward D35, where staff have exciting plans to create a ward library with the support of charity funding. This wonderful project will give patients and families regular access to a variety of books, helping to keep young readers motivated and inspired during their hospital stay.

And if you’re visiting our Charity Hub at Queen’s Medical Centre, why not treat yourself to a ‘Date with a Book’? For a small donation, you can choose a mystery book from our specially wrapped selection, designed for adults who fancy a surprise read without judging a book by its cover. It’s the perfect way to discover something new, knowing your support is helping patients across our hospitals at the same time.

Michelle Dorman, Relationship and Events Manager at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, said:
“We’re so grateful to the local businesses who donated these fantastic books and activities. We know how important it is for patients and families to have something comforting and engaging to do while they’re in hospital, and it’s been wonderful to help spread that joy. Whether it’s a child passing time during treatment, or an elderly patient enjoying a good story, these small moments can make a big difference.”

Thanks to the generosity of our local community and businesses, we’re proud to help spread a love of reading across our hospitals!