Spinal centre upgrade complete as funding brings vision to life

Posted by June Heath on 17 April 2025

We’re incredibly excited to announce the successful completion of our campaign to completely refurbish the outdated day-room at the hospital’s Spinal Cord Injury Centre – a significant milestone for RNOH and its patients. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, and the tireless efforts of Charity Ambassador David Holmes, the project reached its fundraising goal and work is complete!

Time spent in the day-room plays a vital role in rehabilitation and the renovated space will offer patients a warm and welcoming area to connect with loved ones away from the medical ward. The transformation has completely revitalised the room with a modern design, tailored specifically to the needs of spinal cord injury patients and their visitors, ensuring the new space is not only beautiful but functional and fully inclusive.

Delivered in partnership with RNOH teams and healthcare interiors specialists Pi Group, the renovation includes:

• Ergonomic seating tailored for individuals with limited mobility
• Bright, uplifting décor
• Flexible facilities for everything from coffee catch-ups to movie nights for everyone

Penny Barral from Pi Group shared: “The furniture was carefully created with inclusivity and patient care in mind. The design process involved close collaboration with the unit's nursing staff to ensure it would meet the specific needs of patients with spinal injuries. Staff played a key role in identifying critical aspects such as patient comfort, accessibility and ease of use, with consideration for visitors too. The materials are durable yet soft, ensuring comfort while being easy to maintain, with storage designed to maximise floor space. A small space with a big impact!”

CEO of RNOH Charity, Rosie Stolarski, said: “This project is a shining example of what can be achieved when our community comes together. The transformation of the day-room has not only enhanced the hospital environment, but will also play a vital role in supporting patients' emotional and psychological wellbeing during a critical stage in their recovery.

“We are incredibly proud to have made this happen, and profoundly grateful to every supporter who contributed to this campaign that is creating something truly special.”

Professor Paul Fish, CEO of the RNOH NHS Trust, added: “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported RNOH Charity in fundraising for the much-needed refurbishment of the Spinal Cord Injury Centre day-room. This incredible gift will make a real difference to the rehabilitation journey of our patients. The funds raised by RNOH Charity supporters help the hospital go above and beyond for our patients, funding important projects that wouldn’t be possible otherwise, and we send our sincere thanks for your kindness and generosity.”