Month: September 2024

Leicester Hospitals Charity was pleased to officially open the Mackay Wellbeing Garden at Leicester Royal Infirmary on Monday 2 September, thanks to a generous private gift from Leicester philanthropist Richard Mackay and The Richard Mackay Charitable Trust.

The new garden, situated at the heart of the city centre, is set to provide much-needed space for respite and relaxation for the dedicated staff working in the emergency department (ED). Staff at Leicester’s Hospitals continue to deliver high-quality care and during their busy shifts, the need for a break outside can help staff recharge and continue during long shifts.

The Richard Mackay Charitable Trust has donated over £300k to Leicester Hospitals Charity over the years, including £100K to the children’s hospital appeal in 2021.

Richard Mackay (pictured left) said: “In 2022 I approached Leicester Hospitals Charity to see how I could support staff at Leicester’s Hospitals.  I listened to the staff and their ideas about the benefits of a garden like this on their well-being and I was immediately hooked and determined to make this possible.

“I hope the open area oasis among the mass buildings will benefit the ED staff by allowing them to take a moment under the stars or a blue sky during busy and difficult shifts. If this space helps someone a little bit, it is doing what I hoped it would.  The staff deserve this well-being garden and I’m proud to have helped make this happen.”

Richard, owner of Kilworth House Hotel and Theatre, is committed to social justice, supporting 10-15 charities, including other local charities in Leicester. Richard is passionate about the welfare of healthcare workers who tirelessly serve the community. His contribution acknowledges the crucial role of staff wellbeing in delivering exceptional patient care and aims to provide a sustainable space for relaxation and mental health support.

Julie Burdett, Deputy Head of Nursing in the Emergency Department, emphasised the importance of the new Mackay Wellbeing Garden: “The outdoor garden was initially an idea put forward by the emergency staff. The Shared Decision-Making Council staff were instrumental in making this beautiful well-being garden space happen. They wanted somewhere safe for emergency staff to take time out and gather their thoughts during those busy shifts.  They felt having an outdoor space, where they could go to recharge helps with their wellbeing at work and supports improvements in patient care. By spending time in this relaxing environment, staff return to clinical areas more relaxed and better rested.

“Thank you so much to Richard and the charitable trust for this generous donation, all the staff are grateful for this new space.”

The Mackay Wellbeing Garden has been thoughtfully designed as a relaxing environment for hospital staff, offering a much-needed sanctuary during the high-pressure setting of the emergency department. Staff are encouraged to take breaks, enjoy the natural surroundings, and find a moment of respite to re-energise during their busy days.

Sunita Patel, Head of Charity at Leicester Hospitals Charity said: “This beautiful garden is a testament to Richard Mackay’s generosity and understanding of the critical need for staff wellbeing in healthcare settings. We are incredibly grateful for this generous donation, which will undoubtedly have a positive impact on Leicester’s Hospitals staff.

“We are proud to work closely with generous supporters like Richard that have a passion for supporting the local NHS hospitals that care for the community.  The Charity team is here to support those who want to invest in projects that can make a real difference to the healthcare of everyone in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.”