Sussex Cancer Fund’s triple make-overs for patient areas in three hospitals

Alongside their general work of providing additional equipment, patient services and research, Sussex Cancer Fund’s emphasis in recent months has been on improving patient facilities and comfort.

The Sussex Cancer Fund transformed three patient areas across Worthing Hospital, The Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, and The Sussex Cancer Centre, at The Royal Sussex County Hospital Brighton. Part of their ethos is to make patients feel as comfortable as possible while waiting for appointments or treatment. The environment in which patients wait can have a big impact on anxiety levels.

One of the make-overs was at the Amberley Chemotherapy Unit at Worthing Hospital, part of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. The Amberley Unit is a fantastic new facility but the waiting room was very cold and unwelcoming. The Sussex Cancer Fund transformed the room, from a stark and clinical area to a relaxing and comfortable space. Complete with a refreshment station providing a selection of free hot drinks to patients.

The second of the makeovers was the Patient Patio clean-up, Hurstwood Park, Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath. Transforming, a tired and unloved, garden and patio area at Hurstwood Park Chemotherapy Suite. It went from Pigeon Poo Patio, to Peaceful Patient Parlour. A good clean and paint, coupled with new garden furniture and a garden tidy-up.

The next make-over in the triple line up was the main waiting room at the Sussex Cancer Centre. Much of the furniture had become tired and the layout awkward and unfriendly. With a lick of paint, some new furniture and faux plants they created a space that not only generated space for more patients but also softened it, making it more welcoming

The Sussex cancer Fund would like to thank all their volunteers including, some of the Finance Team from Virgin Atlantic and TCS. Also thank you to Tesco and M&S, Holmbush, for the donation of the faux plants.

The Susssex Cancer Fund haven’t finished with their refurbishments plans yet and are working on two projects across St Richards Hospital, Chichester and at the Preston Park Breast Centre, which should be complete by the end of January 2024.

Please see www.sussexcancerfund.co.uk for more information about the work of the SCF throughout Sussex.

Who are the Sussex Cancer Fund

The Sussex Cancer Fund works to help make life better for cancer patients in Sussex – providing equipment and services that make a tangible difference for patients who are often on a difficult and stressful journey. They also selectively fund and enable Sussex based cancer research programs that contribute to the understanding of cancers and improved outcomes for patients.