Supporting Nottingham’s Hospitals on World Cancer Day

This World Cancer Day, we want to shine a light on the vital areas we support at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, including children’s cancer ward E39 at Nottingham Children’s Hospital and other oncology services across Nottingham’s NHS hospitals. From small but meaningful items, such as stress balls and hand warmers to help comfort patients, to larger investments in life-saving equipment and ward enhancements, our work aims to improve the experience of those undergoing cancer treatment, as well as their families and caregivers.

Over the past 12 months, we’ve been proud to fund enhancements across different areas of Nottingham’s Hospitals, but it would not have been possible without your support. 

Bringing comfort and entertainment: Sunday afternoon movie sessions

A hospital stay can be long and challenging for young patients, which is why we funded a large TV and mobile stand for E39, allowing the ward to create Sunday afternoon movie sessions. These sessions offer a welcome escape, giving children the chance to relax and enjoy a film together with their families, bringing a sense of normalcy and comfort during difficult times.

Supporting parents’ wellbeing: gym and swim passes

For many parents, supporting a child through cancer treatment means spending weeks or even months on the ward, often far from home. Understanding the importance of mental and physical wellbeing, we have funded gym, and swim passes at the nearby University of Nottingham Sports Centre, a short walk from Queen’s Medical Centre where Nottingham Children’s Hospital is based. These passes provide parents with the opportunity to exercise and recharge, helping them to better support their children through treatment.

Enhancing patient care: a new shower trolley for E39

Maintaining dignity and comfort during treatment is crucial, which is why we have provided funding for a Medicare Height Adjustable Shower Trolley. This valuable piece of equipment allows for easier and safer transfers to and from the showering area, ensuring children receive the best possible care while reducing strain on staff and caregivers. Its mobility and adjustability make it an invaluable addition to the ward, offering a more comfortable and dignified bathing experience for patients.

Beyond E39: supporting cancer patients across Nottingham

In addition to our work on Ward E39, our oncology fund continues to support other initiatives across Nottingham’s hospitals to improve patient care and experience.

Communication aids for head and neck cancer patients

For patients who have undergone major head and neck surgeries, such as tracheostomies, communication can be a challenge. To address this, fundraising efforts, including the successful ‘Larry’s Laps’ charity walks, have enabled us to provide whiteboards, pens, and TV remotes. These aids help patients communicate more effectively with loved ones and staff, reducing frustration and improving their hospital experience.

Making blood tests easier in oncology outpatients

Regular blood tests are an essential but often unpleasant part of cancer treatment. To help make the process less stressful, we have funded electric heated mittens that improve blood circulation, making it easier for staff to take blood samples with minimal discomfort for patients. 

Stress Balls for radiotherapy patients

To support patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment, we have funded stress balls designed to help them relax and distract their minds during the procedure. These small but effective tools provide comfort and a sense of control during what can be an overwhelming experience.

Celebrating 20 years of the Nottingham Breast Institute

In October 2024, we proudly celebrated 20 years of the Nottingham Breast Institute at Nottingham City Hospital. Since its opening in 2004 by King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, the Institute has provided exceptional care to hundreds of thousands of patients while making significant contributions to breast cancer research and treatment. Over the years, we have supported the Institute by funding specialist medical equipment, the Bra Shop, and the refurbishment of patient spaces, helping to create a more comfortable environment for those undergoing treatment.

Additional oncology support

We have also provided specialist reclining chairs for patients undergoing long chemotherapy sessions, ensuring they can receive treatment in greater comfort. Additionally, we have supported the purchase of distraction toys as well as funding for sensory rooms and play equipment for children, to help ease anxiety during medical procedures and provide an escape from clinical environments.

Thank You for Your Support

None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors, fundraisers, and local businesses who continue to support Nottingham Hospitals Charity. Your contributions make a real difference to patients facing cancer, ensuring they receive the best care, comfort, and support possible.

Last November, we were again proud to be Nottingham Panther’s chosen charity for the month, which concluded with a Hockey vs Cancer match. Panthers players donned lavender jerseys, which were also available for fans to purchase. Money was also raised through exclusive Nottingham University Hospital staff and supporter ticket sales, which provided access to discounted games and £2 from every ticket was donated to our Oncology Fund, as well as fundraising activities such as raffles, tombolas, and limited-edition badges on sale during every November game, with the final amount raised going towards supporting a new roof garden on Hogarth Ward. We were delighted to enlist the help of staff on Hogarth Ward at City Hospital to unveil the jersey prior to the match!

We were also delighted to have the support of the Nottingham Hospitality Association in January, which saw some of Nottingham's hospitality sector come together for their awards night and raise over £1,000 through their charity raffle, thanks to generous prize donations from local businesses. Read about this incredible evening here.

Your incredible support makes all the difference, and we want to say a huge thank you for standing with us to support patients and their families facing cancer.