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Patients at Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie can once again listen to a friendly selection of music, news and chat as Radio Addenbrooke’s returns to the airwaves. The refurbished studio was officially re-opened on Wednesday by the Mayor of Cambridge, Cllr Gerri Bird.
Radio Addenbrooke’s now boasts two studios, one of which is fully accessible to wheelchair users. ACT donated £15,000 towards the upgrade which was match-funded by the hospital. Equipment has kindly been donated by Melbourn-based firm, IPE.
The Radio Addenbrooke’s voluntary service has provided patients with friendly, informative programming covering topics within the hospitals and the local community for over 50 years. As well as presenting radio shows, volunteers gather requests for songs during ward visits and this interaction can provide company and distraction for patients.
Radio Addenbrooke’s is a totally free service available to all inpatients through the bedside Hospedia units.
The studio, which is located in the hospital basement, was facing a number of accessibility and operational issues, which meant that it needed updating for volunteers, particularly those using motorised wheelchairs.
Richard Saunders, Chairman of Radio Addenbrooke’s, said: “All of the volunteers involved with Radio Addenbrooke’s take great pride in providing a service to patients. We’ve really missed broadcasting while works were ongoing but are delighted with the new facilities which will allow us to entertain patients for many years to come. A big thanks must go to ACT and Addenbrooke’s for supporting us with these much-needed developments.”
David Robinson, ACT’s Chair, said: “We are happy to make this award for this much-appreciated service. It improves the environment for all the kind-hearted volunteers who give their time to support patients in this way and means that hospital radio can continue to bring light-relief for patients during their stay.”
Jane Ramsey, the hospital’s Chair said: “I know patients have missed Radio Addenbrooke’s while improvements have been made, so I am particularly pleased to see this vital service re-opening. A huge thank you to everyone who has worked so tirelessly to make it happen”.
