Speech and language therapy unit at Heatherwood gets a boost

Speech and language therapy at Heatherwood Hospital is benefiting from new equipment and a redecorated unit, thanks to volunteers from Telefónica UK Limited and a donation from the League of Friends.

The League of Friends of Heatherwood Hospital recently funded the purchase of new computer software that works with patients who have suffered a stroke which has affected their speech and understanding of language. Phillip Mannion, senior therapist, said: “Being able to use this new software is really helping us to deliver better patient care”.

The generous donation also helped to purchase a laptop which allows therapists on the unit to work with patients directly on the ward, giving them access to a wide range of exercises which target specific areas of difficulty during therapy. Previously, staff would have spent time creating suitable material to work with patients, reducing the time spent on direct patient care.

Volunteers from Telefónica UK Limited also helped to improve the patient experience by spending the day redecorating rooms on the unit. Walls painted, filing cabinets resprayed, new pictures hung to create a warmer feel and the donation of a storage cupboard and noticeboard all made for a transformation that not only patients but staff can now enjoy.

David Brown, therapist, said: “We were absolutely delighted when we arrived back to the department! The rooms looked completely transformed and the department is now a wonderful environment for both staff and our patients”.

Jo Howard, team leader at Telefónica UK, said: “The team were delighted to be able to make a difference for the speech and language therapy unit. We thoroughly enjoyed the day and look forward to helping out again on another project”.