We were delighted to unveil two new mobile phone charging units, funded thanks to the donations and support received during the NHS 75th birthday celebrations.

These charging stations allow patients and visitors to charge their devices while waiting in the busy emergency departments at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Woolwich and University Hospital Lewisham.

Located in ED waiting areas, these easy to use stations offer free of charge mobile charging and are already benefitting our patients and those accompanying them.

These stations were purchased following a request by the Patient Experience team in response to feedback from patients. 

Margarita Vidiella, Head of Charity and Volunteers said: “I was delighted to work with the Patient Experience team and Estates to set up our first mobile-charging stations for patients and visitors at the Trust’s very busy Emergency Department. The charging units were only installed three days ago and have already been used by more than 300 patients and visitors who unexpectedly found themselves in ED without a charger to hand.”

Michelle Acquah, Patient Experience Manager said: “One of the Trust’s values is to positively seek out, listen and act on feedback from patients to continuously improve the quality of care. The purchase of the units demonstrates that we have listened and acted. The charging units will go a long way in improving the experience for patients and carers attending the emergency and other departments. A charged mobile device will help patients keep in touch with loved ones during a difficult time and act as a form of distraction while waiting. Thank you to Margarita, the Head of Charity and her team for being responsive to the needs of patients, carers and visitors and to all those who contribute to the Charity.”

Jonathan Thomson, Deputy General Manager – QEH Medicine – Unplanned Care said: “Everyone is so connected in today’s world.  By allowing patients and relatives to keep their mobile devices charged when at the Emergency Department can reduce stress, worry, and anxiety, by allowing them to stay connected with loved ones during their stay with the Emergency Department.  Since installation, the ChargeBox has already been utilised 274 times…..it’s been installed less than a week!”

These units are also helping to relieve the pressures on ED staff, who have on countless occasions helped patients and visitors with their own phone chargers.

Our Charity has been able to purchase these mobile phone charging units only thanks to the generous support from colleagues and supporters who contributed to the NHS 75^th anniversary celebrations activities, including by taking part in challenges, purchasing raffle tickets and donating. 

For more information on our Charity or to offer your support contact us at [email protected]

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