Wildlife presenter Kate Humble unveils children’s hospital mural
Last updated: 02/07/2020
Activity coordinator, Alex Ray with Kate Humble
Staff at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children were delighted to welcome TV presenter, Kate Humble, to unveil an exciting and interactive artwork that aims to distract young patients and their families.
Located on Carousel Outpatients, in the phlebotomy room, what was previously a clinical looking room now boasts brightly coloured walls with images of balloons, wildlife and hidden animals for patients to seek and count while taking their attention away from having blood tests.
Creator of the marvellous mural is the hospital’s talented activity coordinator, Alex Ray. Alex spent 10 days expressing his imagination and flair, with paints that were generously supplied by Pat at Avonmouth Paint Supplies, and delivered free to the hospital.
Sue, children’s hospital phlebotomist said: “We are thrilled with the final artwork. The vibrant colours and images have transformed the space for our patients and their families, helping us to divert any anxieties from having a clinical procedure.
“It was a pleasure to have Kate officially unveil the mural, a fitting tribute to her work on TV. We want to thank Kate for showing her support and acknowledging the powerful impact of artwork to enable us to help patients and their families feel at ease.”
Kate was joined by colleagues from the Outpatient Department to celebrate the occasion and show her appreciation for the team’s hard work and commitment to providing the best care and experience.
Kate said: “I relished the opportunity to open this mural and visit the children’s hospital, the experience has been tremendous.
“It’s evident the effort Alex has put in to capture a stunning scene, he has done a fantastic job. While I have spent time being stimulated by its beauty, I can see why it will make the ideal distraction for children who may otherwise be scared or need their attention elsewhere for the phlebotomy team do their job.”
Alex Ray, hospital play activity coordinator, said: “A lot of my work often runs out of our main activity centre which is currently closed to patients. With some free time, the team has taken the opportunity to renovate areas across the hospital, including the play centre and the phlebotomy room in Outpatients.
“Painting the room was an absolute joy, taking a blank canvas and turning it into a small haven. Since completion the room has been in use, with the team reporting positive feedback from our patients and their families.”