Kennet Ward is the third of the hospital’s elderly care wards to be refurbished to provide a dementia friendly environment, creating surroundings that are secure, safe, homely and comfortable. Charitable support funded the dementia friendly elements associated with the refurbishment including the flooring, lighting, wall finishes, social spaces, artwork and signage.

The works included the addition of a day room that also acts as a multi-sensory tranquil space, which adds to the therapeutic activities provided in the activity room on Derwent Ward. As part of the works, six side rooms have also been decorated with softer finishes, creating a more appropriate environment for patients who reach the end of their life during a hospital admission. The idea is to use the senses of light, smell and hearing to create a calming natural sanctuary, removed from the clinical hospital environment.

Jo Farrar, Chief Executive of Kingston Hospital said: “It’s fantastic to see the completion of these works, which will help us continue to improve the quality of care we provide at Kingston Hospital.”

Thank you to everyone who so generously contributed.