Croydon’s NHS charity launches campaign calling on local people to support dementia appeal
Croydon Health Charity has launched its first ever Christmas advert to launch its flagship ‘Memory Lane Garden’ appeal, encouraging people to give the gift of memories this festive season.
The appeal will seek to raise over £160,000 to bring a piece of home to hospital, transforming part of Croydon University Hospital into a much-needed, therapeutic garden for elderly patients and those with a dementia diagnosis, who are receiving care in Croydon
The Memory Lane dementia garden will provide a peaceful, safe outdoor space for elderly patients receiving dementia care in Croydon, offering a therapeutic environment for patients, helping to reduce stress and improve their overall wellbeing.
It will also provide a welcoming, calming space for families, where they will be able to connect with loved ones and reminisce in a serene and supportive non-clinical area.
Dr Nima Hashemi, Consultant Physician in Elderly Care, said:
“The Memory Lane dementia garden will make a significant difference to the health and wellbeing of dementia patients at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, so I really urge people to support the appeal.
“Improved mental stimulation and well-being as well as physical and psychological recovery, are just some of clinical benefits that patients will receive through the use of the dementia garden.”
Approximately 3,500 people are currently living with dementia in Croydon. In 2023, Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, saw 1,642 dementia patients in the Emergency Department, with more than half of them requiring admittance to a ward.
Ellie, Junior Sister on one of Croydon University Hospital's elderly care wards believes that offering something more will have a huge impact on the patients she sees every day.
“It’s so important for patients to get off the ward,” Ellie explains, “Right now, we don’t have that kind of space. A better outdoor area would help both the patients and their families, and it would be wonderful to see.”
Christina Clynes, Director of Communications and Fundraising, said:
“Every donation, no matter the size, will directly contribute to creating this vital resource for dementia care and support the emotional wellbeing of patients, helping to reduce agitation and providing them with a safe, space to enjoy time outdoors, creating a home from home environment for some of Croydon’s most vulnerable patients.”
To help the charity achieve its fundraising goal and create this vital dementia resource, people can visit the Memory Lane Garden JustGiving page or text MEMORYLANE £5 to 70085
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