George Eliot Hospital Charity is proud to support the George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust’s Ambition to Prevent Deconditioning Programme by funding clothing for patients, helping to remove practical barriers that can stand in the way of recovery.
The innovative programme encourages patients to ‘move more’ during their hospital stay, helping to reduce the effects of deconditioning; the loss of strength, mobility and independence that can occur surprisingly quickly during periods of prolonged inactivity.
The programme offers a range of activities and exercises designed to help patients maintain their confidence, improve their wellbeing and support a faster, more independent recovery. A dedicated team of volunteers plays a vital role in encouraging and supporting patients to take part.
During the programme, staff and volunteers identified that some patients on participating wards were unable to participate fully because they did not have suitable clothing to wear. This initial pilot has been developed to explore whether providing essential clothing can help remove this barrier to recovery. Without appropriate clothes, something as simple as getting dressed and leaving the bedside can become an additional obstacle to recovery.
Thanks to funding from George Eliot Hospital Charity, an initial pilot supply of essential clothing has been introduced on selected wards to support patients who have no other means of obtaining suitable clothing. The project will help the Trust assess the benefits of providing clothing as part of its deconditioning programme, with the aim of understanding how it can support patients to get up, get dressed and regain a sense of dignity, confidence and normality during their hospital stay.
Lisa Harrison-Byrne, Fundraising Manager at George Eliot Hospital Charity, said:
“We are delighted to support this fantastic initiative. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that can have the greatest impact. Providing suitable clothing removes a practical barrier, enabling patients to take part in activities that support their recovery while restoring dignity and independence during what can be a difficult time.”
The Charity would also like to thank Kurtis Hunter, Project Volunteer Coordinator, for bringing the project to our attention and for her continued commitment to improving the experience of patients at George Eliot Hospital.
Every donation made to George Eliot Hospital Charity helps fund projects like this that go beyond NHS funding, enhancing patient care, supporting staff wellbeing and creating the best possible experience for patients and their families.