Newcastle Hospitals Charity is pleased to have funded 3000 reusable water bottles for patients undergoing radiotherapy at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care (NCCC) at the Freeman Hospital and at NCCC Cumbria.
The grant funding followed an application from Clinical Specialist Therapeutic Radiographer Dean Ainslie (above, 2nd from left), and is set to positively impact the sustainability of radiotherapy treatment, as well as improve the patient experience.
Patients with pelvic conditions such as prostate cancer need to fill their bladder to certain point to aid with treatment, and these bottles contain just the right amount to do this, meaning fewer trips to find a water dispenser, and more freedom to move around the waiting area – for example, taking some time in the outdoor courtyard before treatment.
The bottles will also allow patients to prep before coming in to an appointment – meaning less time waiting in hospital – and allows them to add squash to their water if preferred, making it more palatable.
They will also help to replace up to 84,500 plastic water cups, which is a huge step in the right direction in helping to make Newcastle Hospitals more sustainable.
Any member of Newcastle Hospitals staff can apply for a grant from Newcastle Hospitals Charity if they’ve got an idea that will improve the health and wellbeing of our patients, people, and wider communities. They can apply online or email the grants team for advice and support.
