Chamber committee set to volunteer at Solihull Hospital

The Solihull Chamber of Commerce executive committee has announced they will be volunteering in Solihull Hospital’s Oncology department during October, to support their charity of the year, Solihull Hospital Charity.

The team will be giving the Solihull Hospital garden a refresh, painting the fences and wooden seating area.

In May 2018, Solihull opened its new £2.2 million Chemotherapy Unit improving the provision for cancer patients and is known as the Solihull Haematology and Oncology Day Unit. 

It was designed specifically with patient needs in mind and offers a more peaceful and comfortable environment.  The unit has its own entrance and garden area.

Over the last seven years the Unit has been a beacon of hope for thousands of local residents.  The recent extension has allowed even more patients to vital treatment close to home, alleviating the burden of travel during such challenging times.

Each month 600 patients pass through the units’ doors either to start or continue with their chemotherapy journey.

The garden is a therapeutic space designed to support the emotional and physical wellbeing of cancer patients undergoing treatment, providing restorative experiences through nature.

Ruth Fielding, senior sister at Solihull Hospital commented: “The garden is used by staff and patients, as a quiet place to relax. It also marks the end of a patient’s chemotherapy journey by the ringing of the bell.”

“We are extremely grateful to Solihull Chamber of Commerce, who will be giving the garden a fresh look, by painting the fence and wooden seating area.”

Emma-Louise Hewitt, president of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re delighted to roll up our sleeves and help care for and tend to the gardens at Solihull Hospital for the Haematology and Oncology Day Unit. 

“It’s a small way for us to give back, brighten the space, and show our support for the Solihull Hospital Charity, the patients, families and staff who spend time there. It is a place for relaxation and celebration where patients can ring the bell to mark the end of their chemotherapy journey by the ringing of the bell.”

If you would like to get involved by donating to Solihull Hospital Charity, visit their website.

Pictured: The Solihull Hospital Garden