Angela Wade (Research/ Development and Dignity Lead) has been able to buy much needed clothing for our patients who find themselves in hospital either as an emergency or who may not have family or friends to bring items in for them.

Angela Said:
“The Dignity Project team helps provide that extra dignity for people who do not have suitable attire while staying here at Bromfield Hospital, and we are immensely grateful to the Friends at Broomfield Hospital for supporting this important initiative”

Friends volunteers Sandra and Laura joined Angela, Audrey Judd (domestic team leader) and Leanne Lawrence (hotel services administrator) recently to see the wonderful selection of clothes they have purchased, and to learn how the items are distributed around the hospital to those in need.

Our Charity at Broomfield is forever grateful for the continuing support we receive for their continuing support we receive from the Friends and their volunteers.

On Danbury, Goldhanger, Baddow and Braxted wards they sensitively sing, play guitars and ukuleles, violin and soft percussion to calm and soothe patients.

There is scientific evidence that music can relieve pain and improve the wellbeing of patients, family members and staff.

Patients on these wards, some of whom have dementia, might not be interacting with others. But when the musicians arrive the often start to smile, talk, laugh and even sing and play themselves.

Staff have also been seen singing and dancing with patients; and some have shown off their musical talents by playing instruments.
Jonathan Wright – Patient Experience Manager “the impact the musicians have on the ward is huge, the atmosphere completely changes with big beaming smiles all around for patients and staff”.

This pilot project is funded by Friends of the Broomfield.

Please visit www.pulsearts.co.uk for more information.

Photos – Still from the video of John Kingston, playing with Pulse Arts Musician Joe Danks. Joe Danks and Dave Mckenny

The “Forget-me-Not” garden came to fruition thanks to the efforts of volunteers and was completely financed by charitable funds and donations.

A substantial contribution of £20,000 was made towards the garden project by the Friends at Broomfield Hospital as part of the organisation’s ongoing aim to make life better at the hospital for patients, visitors and staff.

Fran Hodby, dementia specialist at Broomfield Hospital said: “The garden is already making a huge difference, helping patients with dementia have a more positive experience when they are in hospital.

“Getting outside into the fresh air gives them a break from being on the wards, lowers stress levels and it means that patients with dementia can be reminded of things they did in their younger days.”

Patients are now able to enjoy relaxing walks around the garden, which includes a garden room, seating, a pergola and an evocative sculpture of a young girl skipping. The patients will also be able to enjoy activities including gardening groups and pet therapy.

The garden was designed by Michael Ekers who won a competition among Writtle College students to come up with a concept for the project. His design transformed a former uninviting courtyard area into a beautiful space, including a safe circular path and a soothing green and white palette of drought resistant and shade tolerant plants.

The Forget-me-Not garden project was led by members of Chelmsford’s 41 Club part of the Round Table family.
A total of 20 tons of shingle had to be removed at the start of the project and volunteers from the 41 Club put in hundreds of hours of work ranging from project management to construction and planting.

They were helped by volunteers from other groups including Round Table, Rotary, Tangent and Essex Boy’s and Girl’ Clubs.
Doug Pinkney from the 41 Club said: “It was hard work, but very rewarding and there was a lot of good humour involved.”

Alison Douglas, chairman of the Friends at Broomfield Hospital said: “We are delighted to have been able to make such a significant contribution towards such a worthwhile project. The end result is a credit to all the volunteers who put in such an immense amount to work and it is something that will be of lasting benefit for patients with dementia.”