£2.5 million appeal to support Dorset County Hospital's Emergency Unit
The DCH charity say they expect the campaign to last three years
A £2.5 million appeal's being launched by Dorset County Hospital's charity towards 'major enhancements' for the new Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit.
Construction on the unit will be starting soon, with this appeal funding extra facilities on site.
That'll include things like overnight accommodation for relatives of those having treatment, a patient garden, and rest and welfare facilities for clinical staff.
The new appeal will also fund 'artistically designed elements' with the aim of creating 'a sympathetic and healing environment for the benefit of all'.
Dr Steve Meek, Consultant Emergency Physician in the DCH Emergency Department said:
“Last year our Emergency teams looked after over 50,000 patients – the facility was originally built for less than half that number – just 22,000.
“We know that attending the Emergency Department as a patient can be a stressful experience and a cramped layout and crowded waiting areas can create more anxiety. In the new plan both the capacity and layout of the department will be greatly improved.”
Dr David Quick, Consultant in Anaesthetics and Critical Care Medicine said:
“The new Critical Care Unit will provide a facility that is purpose built to enhance the care for patients, to provide families with support and access to their loved ones and provide an environment for the staff to work to their full potential.”
The appeal will be officially launched at the Dorset County Show this weekend, as they've been chosen as their charity of the year.
Dorset County Show organiser James Cox said:
“The experiences of our Chair Nicki Ralph and her husband have highlighted the fact none of us know when we may need critical care. To have state-of-the-art resources on hand at our local hospital makes us incredibly fortunate. We’re delighted to fundraise for this fantastic cause.”
Simon Pearson, DCH Head of Charity said:
“This is our biggest ever fundraising appeal, which will significantly enhance patient care and staff welfare. To make this appeal successful we need the support of the local community. There will be many opportunities for individuals, community groups and local businesses to support the appeal over the next three years and we invite anyone interested in finding out more to contact us directly.”
You can find out more about the DCH Emergency and Critical Care Appeal |newtab) on their website.