Impact Stories Archives - Leicester Hospitals Charity

A new parent room on Ward 12 is now open

A new parent retreat room on the Leicester Royal Infirmary’s high dependency unit has opened, thanks to the tireless fundraising of a mum who understands just how important it is to have somewhere quiet to turn during long and difficult hospital stays.

The new room on Ward 12 was officially opened by fundraiser Asiya Parekh, whose two-year-old son, Yahya, was cared for on the unit in 2020. Asiya raised more than £10,000 in memory of both her son and her father, who passed away just three weeks before Yahya, creating a lasting legacy that will support families for years to come.

This new parent room on the Children’s High Dependency Unit and Respiratory Ward offers families a calm, private space away from the clinical environment, without ever being far from their child. For parents facing long and often incredibly difficult hospital stays, sometimes lasting months, having somewhere to pause, reflect and gather strength can make all the difference. Thoughtfully created from an unused storeroom, the room now provides a welcoming retreat, as well as a dedicated space for sensitive conversations with clinical teams, helping to support families with dignity, privacy and care.

Families on the ward often experience long stays, sometimes lasting many months or even years and, before the room was created, parents had nowhere to step away from the bedside.

Through her role within the Charity, she can see firsthand how the effort of giving back can make such a lasting impact. Reflecting on her own experience and her drive to fundraise, she said: “This unit is where my two-year-old son Yahya spent his final days in 2020. I know first-hand how difficult it is for parents to leave their child’s bedside, even for a moment. We spent some time on the high dependency unit, and I know how important it is to have somewhere close by to gather your thoughts, take a breath, or receive news from a clinician in private. That’s why I wanted to create this room.

“I hope it offers comfort, dignity, and a small sense of peace to families like mine who are facing the unimaginable.”

Sunita Patel, Head of Charity, said: “We are incredibly pleased to be able to open this new parent room following the fundraising efforts of Asiya Parekh. Asiya knows first-hand the need for such a space, and we are very proud of her and grateful for her support.”

Her vision, driven by the desire to help others facing similar circumstances, has transformed a previously unused storeroom into a dedicated retreat. Thanks to her determination, and the generosity of those who supported her, families on Ward 12 now have a place to breathe during some of their most challenging moments.

Miles the Teddy Bear: Comforting Little Lives on Big Journeys

How a simple teddy is bringing reassurance, strength and smiles to families during hospital transfers.

Miles the teddy bear ready to comfort his new travelling companion.

Every year, hundreds of sick and premature babies across the East Midlands face hospital transfers for specialist care. Thanks to your generosity, these tiny patients never travel alone – they have Miles the teddy bear by their side.

The CenTre Neonatal Transport Service carries out around 1,539 transfers every year, moving babies between hospitals for intensive care or returning them closer to home. Each baby receives their very own Miles bear on their first journey – a small companion that makes a big difference.

Thanks to your ongoing support, another 2,500 bears are ready to hop onboard for the special journey. More than just a keepsake, these little bears bring comfort, reassurance, and a sense of calm to families during what can be an anxious and emotional time.

For Elijah, born in January 2020, Miles quickly became more than just a bear. His mum remembers seeing the tiny bear placed in his incubator during transfer, and how it has been part of Elijah’s life ever since.

Now four years old, Elijah lovingly calls him “Baby Bear.” From hospital appointments to holidays, food shopping, and even birthday parties, Baby Bear is always by his side. Elijah, who has autism, finds deep comfort in the bear’s familiar presence. When he feels upset or overwhelmed, holding Baby Bear close helps him find calm. Elijah’s bear remains his closest companion – now carefully carried in a backpack to keep him safe.

Miles the teddy tucked in beside Elijah during his transfer, bringing comfort on his journey.

His mum told us, “The Miles bear is not just a bear, keepsake or reminder for us, he’s part of the family. There’s not a time you will see Elijah and not see Baby Bear nearby.”

Julie Needham, Matron on the CenTre Neonatal Transport Team, added, “On behalf of the team at CenTre and the families we support, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who generously donated to fund our beloved Miles bear. His presence brings so much comfort and joy to the babies and their families during what can be an incredibly stressful and emotional time. Miles is loved by everyone. Your contributions have made a real difference, and we are so grateful for the love and kindness you’ve helped us share.”

Stories like Elijah’s show that something as simple as a teddy bear can bring lasting comfort – sometimes for many years to come.

Thank you for helping us provide families with strength, reassurance, and a very special travelling companion.

Newly Created Milk Kitchen Improves Care and Comfort for Neonatal Families

A brand-new, purpose-built milk kitchen is now in use at Leicester General Hospital’s Neonatal Unit – made possible by your generous support.

Chloe, Ward Nurse is proud to support parents in preparing specialist formula in the new milk kitchen.

Until recently, the unit had no dedicated space for preparing and storing specialist formula milk. Bottle preparation, sterilisation and milk storage had to share space with the mothers’ expressing room – a setup that was both impractical and lacking in privacy.

Now, thanks to your kindness, parents have a dedicated kitchen where they can wash and sterilise equipment, prepare milk and take a more active role in their baby’s care from day one. And the redesign of the expressing room provides new mothers with the privacy they deserve.

Previously, many premature or unwell babies at Leicester General requiring specialised formula milk had to be transported back to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where a suitable milk kitchen is available. These transfers could be distressing for parents and physically challenging for babies.

With the new facility in place, those transfers are no longer necessary unless clinically essential. This means more babies can remain at Leicester General Hospital, without disruption.

The new milk kitchen has allowed mum Rebecca to have more active role in caring for Mabel..

“Feeding is such a fundamental part of bonding with your baby,” explained Rachel McCoy, Ward Manager on the unit. “This kitchen allows new parents to do that in a safe, supportive and private space.”

Rebecca from Blaby has been using the new milk kitchen for baby Mabel since giving birth four weeks ago. She said “My little Mabel made an early entrance into the world and has been receiving the most fantastic care on the Neonatal Unit. I’ve used the milk kitchen each day to make the special formula my baby needs to grow stronger to be able to come home. I’m so grateful that the kitchen is here and that I’m able to have some control over caring for my baby.” The impact goes beyond convenience – it’s about dignity, safety and emotional wellbeing

This project has already brought peace of mind to families and staff alike, and it is only possible because of the kindness of supporters like you.

Thanks to your generosity, Leicester’s tiniest patients can stay closer to their loved ones, and parents can be part of the precious early moments of feeding, bonding and caring – right here at Leicester General Hospital.

Bringing Ultrasound to the Bedside: Faster, Kinder Care for Patients

A new, state-of-the-art point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) machine is now in daily use a Leicester Royal Infirmary’s (LRI) Acute Medical Unit (AMU)- thanks to your support.

The new POCUS machine is capable of diagnosing conditions at the bedside, providing fast and safe care

The AMU is where some of the hospital’s most acutely unwell patients are treated. Previously, just one scanner was shared between specialist medical wards, creating unhelpful delays and limiting access. Now, with a dedicated machine based on the AMU, clinical teams can deliver faster, safer, and more effective care.

Dr Salam Al-Alousi (middle) and the team are able to deliver top quality care at the bedside using the new ultrasound machine.

The equipment is already making a significant impact. Used multiple times a day, it allows our doctors to carry out real-time bedside imaging to make urgent decisions and begin treatment immediately. This can be vital in time-critical situations, such as diagnosing infections, locating
internal free fluid, or assessing heart and lung function in patients with breathing difficulties.

“This scanner has helped to streamline the way we care for our patients,” said Dr Salam Al-Alousi, Consultant in Acute Medicine. “It gives us the ability to make an accurate diagnosis right at the bedside – even during the initial assessment – so we can start the right treatment straight away. It’s faster, and often much kinder for our patients.”

The new machine is also enhancing care during invasive procedures. “When we’re placing cannulas or performing procedures like lumbar punctures, the ultrasound machine helps us guide the needle in real time,” said Dr Al-Alousi. “That means fewer attempts, less discomfort for the patient, and a better overall experience.”

Unlike traditional scans, which often require patients to be moved or referred to other departments, this top-of-the-range device brings advanced diagnostics directly to the patient’s bedside. In some cases, it has replaced the need for formal X-rays, offering far greater clarity and accuracy.

The new machine is not only transforming care for our patients but also helping to train the next generation of acute medicine consultants. As part of a region-wide programme in POCUS, our hospitals are playing a leading role in teaching doctors how to use this tool. This means Leicester’s Hospitals are at the forefront of improving patient outcomes – both here in Leicester and across the East Midlands.

This transformative piece of equipment is already delivering round the clock care, improving diagnosis, speeding up treatment, and reducing pressure on other hospital services.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of people like you, staff at Leicester Royal Infirmary now have a top-of-the-range tool to deliver the very best care for some of the hospital’s most poorly patients.

New hospital buggies make visits easier and kinder for patients like Guy

Three brand-new electric buggies are now in service across Leicester’s Hospitals – all thanks to your generosity.

Volunteer — Our friendly hospital volunteers ensure the buggy service is there for patients in need of a lift.

The new vehicles are based at Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester General Hospital and Glenfield Hospital, and are providing an invaluable service for patients who need support navigating hospital grounds. Run by trained hospital volunteers, the buggy service helps hundreds of people every month get safely and comfortably from car parks or entrances to wards, clinics and departments.

The new buggies allow patients like Guy to travel quickly and in comfort across hospital sites.

One recent passenger, Guy from Ashby de-la-Zouch, used the service during a recent visit to the Leicester General Hospital for a blood transfusion.

“The hospital is very spread out, and I needed to get to the new East Midlands Planned Care Centre,” said Guy. “Without the buggy, I would have struggled to find my way. The volunteer drivers were incredibly helpful, and I’m so thankful this service exists.”

Designed with patient dignity, safety and comfort in mind, the new buggies are replacing older vehicles that had become increasingly unreliable and expensive to maintain. The new models are more robust, more accessible, and built to meet the growing demand for patient transport across hospital sites. In 2022–2023 alone, the service supported over 4,500 passengers across more than 3,000 journeys -despite frequent breakdowns that left vehicles out of action for weeks at a time. Thanks to your support, patients can now rely on a dependable, welcoming service that eases stress and ensures they reach their appointments.

“This service really makes a difference,” said Sue McLeod, Head of Patient Experience at Leicester’s Hospitals. “Patients can arrive safely and on time with carers able to travel with them. Thanks to the new buggies, our volunteers can now strive to offer that support every single day, without interruption.” Because of your kind gifts, patients like Guy can now travel through hospital grounds in comfort, safely and with dignity – supported by our dedicated team of volunteers.

A Dose of Dance

Helping patients to keep moving and stay positive

Patients like June are being uplifted whilst building strength and confidence through music and dance.

**Helen Stirland inspiring joy and encouraging patients to keep moving**

The Dose of Dance programme, which was developed in partnership with Virtual Motion Dance Company, is providing a new hospital experience for patients through creative, dance-based movement sessions. Helen Stirland, as Director of Virtual Motion Dance Company, has been working alongside Occupational Therapists across Leicester’s Hospitals. This unique partnership is bringing creative ways that help patients in recovery.

Helen ensures that each session is personal to the patient, tailoring the movements to meet their individual needs. Patients who are unable to leave their bed can still participate in carefully adapted dance exercises designed to work within their physical capabilities.

These sessions do more than just encourage physical activity. They bring moments of joy, connection, and positivity to patients during challenging times. For June, an 85-year-old patient from Wigston, this activity has provided a fun way to socialise with other patients and staff during her hospital treatment.

After a series of falls resulted in a brief stay in hospital, June was determined to rebuild her strength and confidence in order to return home as soon as possible. She described the sessions as both fun and empowering, “Even if you only do a little thing, it’s magic. Sometimes the little things are the most important. I’ve really enjoyed the sessions and will practice the dance moves when I’m back home.”

Patients like June aren’t the only ones noticing the benefits. As, Adeola Adewole, a Senior Occupational Therapist explains, “A Dose of Dance is helping patients feel reassured and confident in their ability to move, making them brighter, more motivated, and more willing to participate in therapy.

“The activity provides physical benefits by improving strength, range of movement, and coordination, with many of the dance movements based on upper and lower limb exercises that patients can continue at home. It also helps to reduce deconditioning, which is a major focus for us.”

Deconditioning occurs when patients, due to illness or surgery, experience muscle weakness, reduced mobility, and overall physical decline from inactivity. This programme encourages patients to stay active, which plays an important role in reversing these effects, ensuring that they’re stronger and more confident as they continue their recovery.

Thanks to your support, initiatives like a Dose of Dance are making great things happen by helping patients rebuild strength, providing joy and connection with others.

Powering recovery

New exercise bike is enhancing patient care

A new exercise bike is making a significant difference for patients like Andy recovering from thoracic surgery at Glenfield Hospital.

**The team are delighted with the**
**new exercise bike, helping to provide**
**the best possible care**

Over the last year, Andy, a 63-year-old retired printer from Northampton, has faced a challenging health journey. In November, he was admitted to Northampton Hospital with difficulty swallowing due to complications following a cancer diagnosis. After receiving initial treatment on his oesophagus, Andy was transferred to Leicester Royal Infirmary for specialist care, before eventually being moved to Glenfield Hospital for life-saving thoracic surgery. Over the course of his treatment, Andy underwent multiple procedures, including repairs to his diaphragm and treatment for a serious lung infection.

Given the length of his hospital stay and the physical toll of the surgeries, Andy’s rehabilitation needed a carefully managed exercise plan to help him regain his strength. Thanks to your support the new exercise bike has proven to be invaluable. “You don’t realise how much muscle strength you lose after being unwell for so long,” explains Michelle, a Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist at Glenfield. “Getting patients moving as soon as possible is vital to prevent complications like chest infections or blood clots, and to rebuild their fitness. The bike allows us to provide a safe, engaging way for patients like Andy to exercise, even when they’re still attached to equipment like chest drains.”

For Andy, the bike has also lifted his spirits.

**Andy enjoying the chance**
**to get moving with support**
**from Michelle**

“It’s been fantastic to have something like this,” he says. “It’s helping me to build my strength back up. I’m hoping to get home soon, it’s been hard being away from my family. I can’t wait to get back to my eight grandchildren and my drum kit. I’m even hoping to be fit enough to visit Dubai this summer.”

The bike also enhances the physiotherapists’ ability to tailor care plans. “For some patients, walking isn’t always possible due to other health conditions like arthritis,” Michelle adds. “The bike provides a weight-free way to exercise and is especially helpful for patients preparing for the next phase of their treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy.”

The exercise bike supports the therapy team’s commitment to Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) principles, which encourage early mobility and empower patients to take an active role in their recovery. Studies show that getting patients moving sooner can reduce hospital stays and improve overall outcomes.

Andy’s recovery story is a testament to how beneficial this equipment can be for patients. “When you’ve been in hospital for a long time, the days can feel endless,” Michelle says. “The bike doesn’t just help physically—it makes rehabilitation more engaging. We’re very grateful for the incredible generosity of donors. You’ve helped to provide the best possible care for patients like Andy.”

A simple act of kindness

How your support is providing vulnerable patients with dignity and respect in their time of need

Because of you, Leicester’s Hospitals can continue to offer a clothes bank service for patients in need, ensuring comfort and dignity during vulnerable moments.

**A selection of brand-new clothing from the clothes bank that allows for patients to leave hospital in comfort**

Every week, many patients arrive at Leicester’s Hospitals in damaged, or inadequate clothing. This can often be a result of emergency situations where clothing must be cut away or sometimes due to personal circumstances. For many, leaving the hospital can present significant challenges— especially for those without family, next of kin, or access to suitable clothing for discharge.

Your support means that a clothes bank service is available across Leicester’s Hospitals, which is fully stocked with unisex essentials like jogging bottoms, jumpers, and T-shirts in a range of sizes.

For staff at Leicester’s Hospitals, being able to offer clothing to patients in need is an important and valued part of the care they provide. Something as simple as a clean set of clothes can make a real difference to a

**Charge Nurse, Eleanor Skea feels a sense of pride in offering clothing to patients in need**

patient’s wellbeing when leaving the hospital. Knowing they can provide this support gives many staff a sense of pride and reassurance that they are helping patients beyond their immediate medical needs.

Eleanor Skea, Ward Sister on the Emergency Decisions Unit at Leicester Royal Infirmary, shared, “I see firsthand the impact the clothes bank has on our patients. It’s a simple act of kindness, but it means so much. Making sure someone has clean, comfortable clothing does more than just meet a basic need – it helps restore their dignity in a moment of vulnerability. I often see the relief on patients’ faces when we offer them something clean and comfortable to wear, and in that moment, their smile says it all. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that such a small gesture can bring so much comfort.”

Whether it’s someone who was admitted in damaged clothing after an emergency or a patient without access to spare clothes, being able to provide this support makes a difficult time a little easier. A thoughtful act like this not only provides warmth and dignity but leaves a lasting impact on a patient’s experience.

It’s no secret the pressures our hospitals sometimes face. With suitable clothing readily available, patients can leave the hospital on time, helping to ensure that Leicester’s Hospitals can run smoothly and compassionately.

This initiative is only possible because of you and your continued support. Your kindness has helped to create a humble but impactful provision for some of the most vulnerable people in our community, offering care, compassion, and respect when it’s needed most.

A little piece of home

Patients like Moez find comfort in a new patient day room

Thanks to your incredible generosity, Ward 33a at Glenfield Hospital has been able to transform their day room into a tranquil space for patients.

**The new fully refurbished**
**day room provides a little piece of** **home on Ward 33a**

The ward specialises in the care of patients with serious cardiac conditions. For many, hospital stays are lengthy and emotionally challenging. The new day room has been created to provide a much-needed haven—a space where patients and loved ones can find peace and are able to recharge during their stay. Previously, patients on the ward lacked a dedicated space to step away from their beds and the busy daily routine of the ward. Now, thanks to your support, a warm and welcoming space has been created, offering comfort and a small sense of normality.

The day room has been thoughtfully designed with patients in mind, providing a cosy sofa, a television with DVDs, and soothing décor to create a calming, homely atmosphere. Every detail, from the furnishings to the layout, was chosen by ward staff to ensure the room feels as homely as possible. Sarah Partner, Staff Nurse on Ward 33a said, “We are so pleased to offer our patients a comforting space that brings a sense of home to the ward. Having the day room located on the ward means that even patients with limited mobility can easily access and enjoy this relaxing area. It’s wonderful to see how much it’s already being appreciated.”

**Patients like Moez can now**
**find comfort in the new day room**

Staff have also shared how the day room has become a space to help patients feel more at ease during their stay. And family members visiting their loved ones can appreciate having a more relaxed and calming space to spend time together.

Moez, from Leicester, who is awaiting heart surgery, said, “The new day room is wonderful and reminds me of my own living room at home. Because of my heart condition I can’t walk too far without becoming out of breath, so I’m unable to venture far. Spending time here has been such a comfort—it’s a little oasis away from the busy ward.”

This transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the ongoing generous contributions from supporters like you. Thank you for helping to make such a meaningful difference. Because of your support, there is now a space where patients can experience comfort and a little sense of home during their hospital stay.

How your kind gifts are helping to provide additional support for vulnerable patients

Alastair Fawkes has been a dedicated Charge Nurse in the Emergency Department (ED) at Leicester Royal Infirmary for over a decade. We sat down with Alastair and heard about the exciting new initiative that is making a real difference to patients with additional needs.

**Alastair and the team have care packs on hand to help provide comfort for vulnerable patients**

What inspired you to become a nurse?

I chose to go into nursing because I wanted to help others. Whilst working as a Healthcare Assistant and Support Worker in the community, I developed a passion for supporting people with additional needs.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that I have made a difference—whether it is helping a patient feel better during a tough time or supporting a staff member through a challenging situation. Seeing the positive impact I have on others is incredibly fulfilling.

What does a typical day or night shift look like for you?

Every shift is different, which is one of the things I love about my job. I am often in charge of ED or leading a specific area within it. This involves managing the team and ensuring that all patients receive the best care possible. The diversity of tasks and the fast-paced environment make each day unique.

Can you tell us about the ED care packs and why they were needed?

**The care packs include ear defenders, an eye mask, stress ball, a sensory bracelet, an adult colouring book with pencils and patient information.**

We realise that accessing ED can be incredibly stressful for patients with additional needs. I had been looking for ways to make their experience better for some time, and the care packs seemed both simple and effective. The items within the care packs range from stress balls to fidget bracelets that provide a simple way for patients to find some comfort and relief in a stressful situation.

How have these packs made a difference for patients?

These packs have truly been a lifeline for our patients, particularly those who are vulnerable. The bright lights, constant noise, and the overall intensity of the ED environment can be overwhelming. These packs offer a sense of calm amid that storm. The difference they have made is profound; they have brought comfort and reassurance into a situation that can often feel intimidating.

Have these packs also helped colleagues deliver better care?

Definitely. The packs are quick to hand out and accessible for colleagues, making it easier to overcome barriers to care. Sometimes we want to do more for our patients, but we are limited in what we can offer. These packs are that ‘something extra’ that allows us to provide even better care.

Is there anything you would like to say to supporters of the Charity who made these packs possible?

I want to express my deepest gratitude. Your contributions have created something that has such a positive impact on both our patients and colleagues. You really have helped to make a great thing happen. Thank you.