The Friends of Conquest Hospital has announced the largest legacy donation in its history, marking a milestone moment for the long-running local charity and promising lasting benefits for patients, visitors and staff at Conquest Hospital.
The generous gift of £125,000, left in a supporter’s will, will support a number of major projects across the hospital site, helping to enhance healing environments and improve the overall experience of care for years to come.
A significant portion of the legacy will be used to continue the refurbishment of the hospital’s 21 courtyards. These valued green spaces provide calm, light and fresh air for patients, visitors and NHS staff. Many of the courtyards are in need of ongoing improvement, and the funding will allow more areas to be refreshed and better maintained as welcoming places for rest, reflection and recovery.
In addition, the donation will help launch a new Art in Healthcare project, which the Friends of Conquest Hospital plans to announce shortly. The initiative will use art and creative installations to improve hospital surroundings, recognising the positive role that visual art can play in wellbeing, reducing anxiety and supporting mental health in clinical settings.
The legacy will also strengthen their Equipment Appeal, enabling the charity to continue funding vital items and enhancements that are not always possible through NHS budgets alone. Over last year, The Friends of Conquest Hospital has funded a range of equipment, comforts and improvements including specialist surgical equipment for theatre, adaptable patient seating and hoists for occupational health and projector-based AV technology for the children’s ward. All thanks to the generosity of the local community.
Thomas Gardiner, Chair of Trustees of the Friends of Conquest Hospital said the legacy was both humbling and inspiring. “This remarkable gift is the largest legacy gift we have ever received and will make a real, visible difference across the hospital. It reflects an extraordinary commitment to the wellbeing of patients and staff, and we are incredibly grateful.”
Founded to support Conquest Hospital, the charity relies entirely on donations, fundraising and legacies. Legacy gifts, in particular, play a vital role in enabling long-term planning and major projects that leave a lasting impact.
The Friends of Conquest Hospital hopes the announcement will also highlight the difference that legacy giving can make, helping supporters continue to care for their local hospital beyond their lifetime.