Geoffrey Robinson has begun work to build a new staff welfare facility in west wing at the University Hospital of North Tees.
The new rest and recharge hub will provide a much needed break-out space for staff and volunteers – housing a kitchenette area, seating, a TV and hand washing facilities.
Chloe Jackson, staff nurse on ward 40, is looking forward to the grand opening of the new facility this autumn.
She said: “Everybody is so, so excited about the new hub. I think we were all under the impression that it was going to happen in 2030 so we are over the moon, collectively, that it’s opening in October.
“Speaking for myself, I have ADHD, and it can be quite overstimulating taking a break in the staff rooms on the wards. So I’m thrilled to have a quiet space away from the noise and busyness of the wards.
“Everyone on ward 40 is talking about it, and I’m sure they are on the other wards in west wing as well. We are so grateful and we can’t thank the charity enough.”
The project began life when fundraising coordinator Suzi Campbell supported wards 41 and 42 with their lunch round during a busy shift. It comes after North Tees and Hartlepool Together’s successful bid for money from the national NHS charity, NHS Charities Together.
Suzi said: “It started when I popped down to the wards to give a helping hand. I was talking with the staff and they all spoke about how beneficial it would be to have a rest space away from clinical areas.
“It’s such an honour to be able to support our colleagues in west wing with this project and we can’t wait to see the finished results.”
The project will be funded off the back of money that was raised for NHS Charities Together through the fundraising efforts of the late Captain Sir Thomas Moore.
