The League of Friends funded many enhancements to the new hospital and continues to support the health and wellbeing of patients in the local community through a variety of initiatives.

One of our recent major projects is ‘Sharon’s Path’ that was conceived by the hospital staff in honour of their nursing colleague, Sharon Osment, who passed away. The high specification path runs at the rear of the hospital and is used by patients with a range of mobility requirements, in order to enhance their rehabilitation and to spend time with friends and family. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Other examples of key medical equipment and services that we have funded in the past few years include:

• Ultrasound machine
• Patient transport for ‘Life After Stroke’ sessions
• Gynaecology examination couch
• Booklet for carers
• Pressure mattresses 
• Bariatric riser/ recliner chair 
• Leg press machine for rehabilitation exercises
• Research into stroke rehabilitation to provide an evidence base upon which future best practice can be developed
• Tai Chi and Yoga classes
• ‘My Parent has a Brain Injury’ books to support families.

• Research position for a staff member – projects funded include: extended rehab for stroke patients, main cause of vascular dementia and predicting outcome and recovery after stroke
• Replacement specialist patient beds
• WiFi for patient internet access
• Expressive Movement Therapy

2017

• Storage cupboards for art therapy sessions
• ‘Simple Up’ step for radiography
• Postgraduate module related to Stroke and Acquired Brain Injury

2016

• Tilt-in-space shower chair
• WiFi for patients and visitors
• Expressive Movement Therapy for patients  (innovative research unique to the hospital)
• Transport bursary for Life After Stroke Club attendees.

2015

• £25,000 donation to the Yeovil Hospital CT Scanner Appeal – vital for anyone who has had a stroke, head or chest injuries, and for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients.
• ‘My Life’ software package enabling patients, visitors and staff to support patients with memory problems.

2014

• In partnership with Age Concern, yoga and movement classes in South Petherton for the local community
• Baby change unit for the hospital’s ground floor
• Additional ultrasonic bladder scanner.

2013

• 5 pressure mattresses
• Tilting shower space chair
• Bariatric chair
• Stroke rehabilitation equipment including a Wii and an iPad for patient use.

Each year we run Christmas coffee mornings and participate in the hospital’s annual fete. 

The projects we fund are usually identified by members of local NHS staff. The trustees invite the applicants to discuss their request with us, after which a decision is made swiftly regarding any funding we might award. The process is clear, rigorous and equitable.

Our funding comes from the generosity of people who value the hospital and appreciate what it provides for the health of the community.

Please donate online by clicking this link: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/13898

Registered Charity no. 297082