New patient and family space created on Saturn ward thanks to local donations

Patients and families at Great Western Hospital are benefiting from a newly transformed day room on Saturn ward, made possible through charitable funding from Brighter Futures.

The project, led by Ward Manager Nicola Lennon, has seen a previously unused storage space converted into a welcoming and comfortable environment where patients and their loved ones can spend time together away from the bedside.

Thanks to the generosity of the local community, Brighter Futures funded new furniture for the space, including a dining table, chairs and comfortable seating, creating a calm, dignified setting for patients and relatives alike.

Supporting independence and recovery

The new day room is already helping to improve patient experience by providing a place where individuals can sit up, enjoy meals at a table, and spend time socialising. This is particularly important in supporting independence and reducing deconditioning during hospital stays.

Nicola Lennon, ward manager, said: "This space allows our patients to step away from their bed space, spend meaningful time with family, and regain a sense of normality. It promotes independence, encourages social interaction, and supports recovery in a really positive way."

A space for families during difficult times

As well as benefiting patients, the room offers families a vital place to gather, reflect and receive updates in a more private and supportive environment.

The transformation aligns closely with the Trust’s commitment to compassionate, family-centred care, ensuring relatives feel supported during what can often be a difficult and emotional time.

Funded by the community, for the community

The project was fully funded through charitable donations to Brighter Futures, the hospital charity for Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Catherine Weaver, Associate Director of Charitable Funds at Brighter Futures, said: "This is a fantastic example of how donations from our local community can make a real difference to patient care. By enhancing spaces like this, we can improve wellbeing, dignity and recovery for patients, while also supporting their families."

Making a real difference to care

By transforming an underused room into a vibrant and supportive space, the project is helping to:

•    Promote patient independence and mobility
•    Reduce deconditioning
•    Encourage social interaction
•    Provide a welcoming environment for families
•    Support staff in delivering more person-centred care

Projects like this highlight the powerful role charitable funding plays in going above and beyond what NHS budgets can provide.