Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity has launched a brand new Dementia Appeal, which aims to enhance the hospital experience for patients living with dementia and their families.
The appeal aims to raise £250,000 in 12 months to potentially redevelop three ward areas at Rotherham Hospital to ensure the environment and facilities foster dignity and independence for the thousands of dementia patients in the Rotherham community.
Gemma Cross, Head of Safeguarding at The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust commented: “No one would choose to be in hospital, it can be a daunting and anxious time for many of us, but for those living with dementia, this can be amplified, and being in an unfamiliar environment can cause fear and increase confusion.
“Your generosity and support will help create an enhanced, supportive environment that will enable staff to provide personalised reminiscence through photos, songs, films and activities that help to provide familiarity, reduce any anxiety and support with creating a routine whilst in hospital.
“In Rotherham we have more than 3,000 people living with dementia and we want to ensure that if they need hospital treatment, that this is a positive experience for them and their loved ones.”
Dementia affects thousands of people in our community and as this number continues to rise, the demand for specialised care has never been greater. The money raised from the charity’s Dementia Appeal will fund:
By enhancing their facilities and investing in equipment, the Trust will create an environment that promotes independence, comfort and well-being for the most vulnerable patients, and their families.
Sally Baker, from Rotherham, is a huge supporter of the Dementia Appeal and is advocating for a dementia friendly hospital environment following her dad David’s dementia diagnosis in January 2020.
Sally said: “My dad is affected by dementia in many ways. When he was first diagnosed, his symptoms were quite mild but over time his dementia has got progressively worse, to the point where I wonder whether he knows who I am now at times. He has five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren and he used to enjoy spending time with them. Now when they visit he doesn’t know who they are and it can be heart-breaking to watch.
“Dad’s dementia impacts his daily life completely, he’s very confused and doesn’t like to be in unfamiliar places or crowded spaces. He gets very upset by loud noises and gets startled easily. His condition is very debilitating to the point where dad can no longer live a normal life.
“When my dad is admitted to hospital it makes me incredibly nervous. I worry so much when dad is admitted because the noisy, overstimulating and chaotic atmosphere of a hospital can be really distressing for him. He can also tend to be a bit of a wanderer. At the care home the staff know his individual needs and I can relax a bit more knowing that he is in familiar surroundings.
“I think the launch of the Dementia Appeal is fantastic. I hope it will enhance the experience that patients like my dad have when admitted to hospital.”
The charity is optimistic about raising the funds to enable the Trust to enhance dementia care for the thousands of patients in Rotherham.
Rachael Dawes, Head of Fundraising at Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, said “Dementia touches so many lives, including my own. My dad lived with dementia and I saw first-hand how small changes in his environment and care made a world of difference to his quality of life. That’s why I’m so passionate about this appeal – it’s about creating a hospital and community where patients with dementia feel safe, understood, and valued. With the support of our wonderful community, we can make a lasting impact for people living with dementia and their families.
“Raising £250,000 is really ambitious for a small charity, but with the public’s support we know we can do it. Together, we hope to create a brighter future for those living with dementia in our community.”
Sally Baker added: “To anyone who is thinking of donating to the appeal, please do. You never know if a member of your family is going to be affected by dementia and it affects everyone so differently. The changes to the hospital could support you and your loved ones in the future. I never thought for one minute the difficulties that dementia could cause to our family. Anything that can be done to make life easier for patients like my dad will be amazing.”
Donations to the Dementia Appeal can be made in person at the Charity Hub in the main entrance at Rotherham Hospital, opposite Boots, or online via Just Giving.