Wildlife calendar in memory of a much-loved colleague

A special wildlife calendar has gone on sale in memory of a much-loved Team NUH colleague.

Noel Barke was a porter at Hayward House palliative care centre, at the City Hospital, for almost 25 years. He helped care for thousands of patients and family members over the years, and was well-known for his special ability to put patients at ease during what could be a difficult time. Noel was well-known and liked by colleagues across the whole hospital, including the team here at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, and always had a smile and a friendly word for everyone he met.

Noel was extremely dedicated to Hayward House, always giving first-class patient care, and also supporting the centre’s fundraising endeavours through Nottingham Hospitals Charity. 

Sadly, Noel passed away on 31^st December 2020. Noel was a keen wildlife photographer, and after he passed away, colleagues decided to put together some of his photographs into a calendar, and sell copies to raise money for Hayward House. 

His partner Sally Bagguley, who is a complementary therapist at Hayward House, said that Noel would have loved the idea of his photographs being used in this way.

Sally said: "Noel was so passionate about palliative care – he loved his job, and he did everything he could to support Hayward House. He ran two half marathons, and got involved in all the fundraising events at Hayward House, such as spring fairs and Christmas fairs. 

“He was very humble about his photography skills, but he would be incredibly proud of the calendar. His two sons are both incredibly proud."

Sales of the 2022 calendar have already raised more than £1,000, with copies still available for £10 each, via Nottingham Hospitals Charity’s online shop. Money raised will be used to support patients and families at Hayward House palliative care centre by funding enhancements such as complementary therapy, art sessions, counselling, and improvements to the patient and family facilities.