Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital: Money and awareness raised with dementia in spotlight
New Cross Hospital has been supporting National Dementia Week with a variety of activities aimed at raising awareness and knowledge of the condition.
The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust’s Dementia Outreach Team have had a packed programme of events with the aim of increasing awareness and providing information and advice to benefit patients with dementia and their families.
Fundraising events have also been held. Charles Poole, 76, from Wolverhampton, and his granddaughter Kerri McMahon, 26, completed the annual 5k Fun Run at St Paul’s Church, Pendeford, in memory of his wife Joyce. They raised £335 for The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust Charity – The Dementia Outreach Team Fund.
Joyce was diagnosed with dementia at the age of 72 and was cared for at New Cross Hospital before passing away at home in August 2016.
Charles, thanking all of his supporters, said: “My wife received such excellent care at the hospital. As a family, we received a lot and this was our way of giving something back to show our appreciation for everything the team did.”
Money raised throughout Dementia Awareness Week will be used to enhance the patient experience by providing additional resources not usually funded by the NHS, such as large print books, activity boxes and jigsaws.
Staff and the public have also been able to access information about the different types of dementia support available throughout the communities the Trust serves.
Julie Willoughby, consultant nurse for dementia services, said “We have been inundated with patients, visitors and staff approaching us throughout the week seeking support.
“This year we have had a notable increase in the number of staff coming forward seeking support too. Some are caring for a loved one with dementia whilst also working at the Trust, and others want to learn more to enhance their work practices.
“Thank you to the Dementia Public Reference Group that supported the showcase event on Wednesday. Members of the group represent patients, carers and other organisations in the community who support people living with dementia.
“Thanks also to Trust colleagues at Cannock Chase Hospital and West Park Hospital who have also held events throughout the week”.
Leanne Bood, fundraising coordinator for the Trust, said: “I want to say thank you to local businesses WOW!, Boots, The Hollybush and Tesco for donating to the prize draw, and to everyone who has bought raffle tickets, cakes or made monetary donations.
“A special thank you to Charles and his family for their support too. It is so humbling when a family want to give something back.”