Friends of Torbay Hospital ensures that parents have rest assured

More parents will be able to stay comfortably with their child in hospital thanks to the generosity of Torbay Hospital League of Friends.

Louisa Cary ward that cares for children and young people under the age of 18 has taken delivery of 12 new parent beds thanks to a donation of more than £13,000 from the League

Michelle Townsend, ward manager, said: “We know how important a restful night’s sleep is to our families and the difference it makes to be together at what can be a very anxious and worrying time.

“It is wonderful to have the support of the League of Friends and thanks to their kind donation we are much closer to our target of having a parent bed for every patient bed on the ward.

Chris Banks, play specialist, said: “Having to undergo treatment can be scary enough as a child, but having parents with them overnight can make things much better. The parent beds can be used as a chair or a recliner during the day time to provide further comfort.”

Michelle added “Our friends at Torquay United FC have also been fundraising for an additional parent bed for us and we are grateful for their continued support.”

The beds are specially manufactured for use in the hospital environment and can be cleaned and disinfected using the same products as used for all other hospital beds and mattresses. They will sleep adults up to 200kg safely and in comfort.

Patricia Roberts, President of Torbay Hospital League of Friends, said: “This donation reflects our commitment not only to the health and recovery of children in Louisa Cary ward but also to the comfort and well-being of the Mums and Dads who support them.

“Parents who need to sleep over help the nurses and, crucially, their children and being able to rest properly while staying close can make a significant difference. We hope these beds will bring much-needed comfort and peace of mind to families when a child is in hospital”

Torbay Hospital League of Friends, which celebrates its 70th birthday this year and whose motto is helping to care, is one of the leading leagues in the country, raising millions of pounds to benefit local people and receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2012.”