Oxford Hospitals Charity has celebrated the opening of its brand new 'charity hub' at the John Radcliffe Hospital.
The charity, which raises funds to make a difference across Oxfordshire hospitals, now has a fully staffed space to talk to more supporters, hospital staff and patients and help those interested in donating or fundraising.
The new hub is located at the main entrance to the Oxford Children's Hospital and provides a cheery welcome to patients and their families as they arrive.
A pink ribbon was cut by nine-year-old Kaiden Edwards, who is a patient on Kamran's Ward, and Professor Meghana Pandit, Chief Executive Officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH), together with members of the charity team, to mark the official opening.
Jamie French, who led the project for the charity, said: "We are so excited to launch our new charity hub and know that this will really help spread the word about the vital work that Oxford Hospitals Charity does in our hospitals.
"We're now here every weekday, with a big smile, to tell people more about the charity and make it quick and easy for them to donate, find out about our fundraising events or simply learn more about the work this special charity does to help our hospitals.
"We'll be handing out activities for young patients to keep them entertained and distracted while waiting for appointments and are ready to meet hospital staff who want to have a chat about how the charity can help their areas.
"Having charity staff on-site, working alongside some wonderful volunteers, will allow us to provide even more support into the hospitals and respond more quickly to needs as they arise.
"We are incredibly grateful to NHS Charities Together, for their kind grant to help us bring the hub to life and The Hospital Company for kindly sharing the space with us, as well as staff across Oxford University Hospitals for their support and encouragement.
"Over the past few weeks, we have been getting everything ready and are now thrilled to be able to fully open our doors. It’s really exciting."
Professor Meghana Pandit, Chief Executive Officer at OUH, said: "Our hospital charity does so much good across our organisation, and I am delighted to see this new charity hub open. It will help spread the word even further about the difference Oxford Hospitals Charity makes for patients and staff."
Douglas Graham, Chief Executive Officer at Oxford Hospitals Charity, added: "We have wanted to have our own space in the heart of our hospitals for a long time, so this really is a special moment. We know that having a team here on hand will make a real difference in so many ways and it’s lovely to see what a bright and friendly welcome the hub now offers."
The new charity hub will be open 9am – 3pm weekdays. Staff, patients and visitors are invited to say hello.
During the opening week there will be a series of activities and events including origami and crafting, a performance from our music on wards team, and competitions for patients, visitors and staff.