Critical care family room transformed thanks to charity support

When a loved one is admitted to critical care in hospital, it can often feel like the world stops while you wait for information. It’s therefore imperative that families have a warm, welcoming and comfortable place to rest while they wait for updates.

The family room before - it was functional but not relaxing.

For many years, those eager to hear from doctors and nurses in Basingstoke have used a room at the entrance of the ward that hasn’t been updated in decades. While adequate for their needs, the room wasn’t inviting for visitors and nurses often felt like it could also add to anxiety levels that were already high.

However, thanks to Hampshire Hospitals Charity and an enthusiastic group of volunteers from Eli Lilly, the room has been transformed into a more personable space and staff are already seeing the benefits to those who spend time in the room.

Clinical matron of critical care, Vicky Taylor, said: “The difference this has made is remarkable. The feedback from relatives, visitors, and staff has been overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on how much brighter, warmer, and more welcoming the rooms now feel.

The family room now is more calming for those using it.

“For many people, these rooms are far more than simply waiting areas. They are places where families sit anxiously while a loved one undergoes treatment, where difficult conversations take place, where life-changing news is received, and where relatives find moments of privacy, reflection, and support during some of the most challenging times in their lives.

“Critical care can be an overwhelming and emotional environment for patients and their families. While we cannot take away the worry and uncertainty they experience, creating a calm, comfortable, and compassionate space can make a meaningful difference. The improvements the charity and volunteers have helped to provide will offer comfort, dignity, and reassurance to countless families in the months and years ahead.”

The team from Eli Lilly spent a whole day redecorating two rooms and the corridor entrance as part of their global day of service. The company also supplied paint and decorating materials while further soft furnishings such as lamps, plants, a bookshelf and new mugs were provided thanks to generous donations to Hampshire Hospitals Charity.

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