Fundraising for new hospital Critical Care and Oncology garden within reach

Fundraising towards the cost of establishing a unique Critical Care and Oncology garden as part of the rebuild at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital has reached a staggering £10,680 – in a matter of weeks of its launch.

The innovative garden, which is the brainchild of Shrewsbury Severn Rotary Club, is set to become a key feature of the Critical Care and Oncology units in the hospital’s new multi-million pound extension set to open in 2028.

Revealing the staggering fundraising success, Shrewsbury Severn Rotary Club’s president Johnathan Callwood said he was ‘absolutely thrilled’ with the result of the challenge so far.

“Rotary has been at the forefront of many innovative projects over the years, but I think it is fair to say none as far-reaching - nor exciting - as this very special garden project.

“I am overwhelmed at the way the hospital Critical Care and Oncology garden idea has been received as well as catching the imagination of so many people from many different walks of life, backgrounds and interests.

“This is particularly typified by the fundraising of a group of regulars at the Red Lion in Caersws who according to reports have raised a staggering £7,125 towards the total so far.

The garden, which will be located on the third floor of the new building, will form part of the hospital’s new Critical Care Unit and Oncology ward.

Said Johnathan: “Aiming to provide a calm space for patients and their loved ones, the garden and outdoor space will support mental and physical wellbeing during what can be a very stressful and difficult time.

“The garden will allow patients their pets, their families and staff time away from clinical areas so they are without the noises of medical devices.”

Chris Mowatt, Clinical Director for Critical Care, said: “The new healthcare facilities, including this unique outdoor space, will help create a much better patient experience where they will benefit from high quality, specialist care in one place. 

“I’d like to extend my thanks to Shrewsbury Severn Rotary Club for their support with this project – having access to outdoor spaces for some of the most unwell patients we care for is a vital part of their treatment and recovery.”

He added that a strong commitment from Rotary had been made to continue working with the Trust through its established Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Charity ensuring more patients have a positive experience supported through vital fundraising.

Julia Clarke, Director of Public Participation, said: “We are delighted to be working with a long-standing organisation within the community – Rotary brings a wealth of experience in supporting important projects throughout the county.

“Having support from this exemplary organisation will only enhance the reach of the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Charity and our fundraising opportunities for the future – I am excited to see this relationship develop for many years to come.”

Both organisations are committed to working with and listening to clinical staff, services users and communities to help shape the look and feel of the Critical Care and Oncology garden.

Anyone wishing to know more about Shrewsbury Severn Rotary Club as well as fundraising for the garden can contact president@shrewsburyrotary.co.uk or vicepresident@shrewsburyrotary.co.uk