The ‘magical’ hospital trolley bringing kindness, comfort and chat to thousands more patients in Leeds
Funding boost for hospital charity trolley service to roll out to more patients in Leeds
A bedside trolley service delivering snacks, essentials and a friendly chat has been expanded to support thousands more patients across Leeds hospitals.
Leeds Hospitals Charity has funded the rollout of its volunteer-led Charity Trolley service to reach more patients, carers and families across Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
The charity has invested £25,000 in expanding its service which is now set to be introduced at Chapel Allerton Hospital and St James’ University Hospital.
Trained volunteers take drinks, snacks, toiletries and other essentials directly to bedsides, while also offering patients a friendly face and someone to talk to.
The service runs at weekends at Chapel Allerton Hospital, where people with complex needs can face lengthy stays and access to refreshments on site may be limited.
Among those to benefit is Ann Mullany, 76, from Huddersfield, who has spent the last six months in hospital and was most recently being treated on the orthopaedics ward at Chapel Allerton Hospital.
She said: "The only word I've got for the charity trolley is magical.
“After spending so many months in hospital, it's a real highlight of my day. The volunteers always arrive smiling and bring so much kindness with them.
“It gives you something to look forward to and adds a little bit of happiness when you need it most. It's a real lift and a reminder that people care."
At St James’s University Hospital, the trolley assists older patients, including those living with dementia or mobility challenges who may find it difficult to reach on-site shops independently.
As well as helping patients remain hydrated and supporting nutrition, the visits provide social interaction and mental stimulation during long hospital stays.
The trolley also visits respiratory wards and supports families receiving maternity care on postnatal wards at St James’s Hospital and Leeds General Infirmary.
This includes women recovering after giving birth and those separated from their babies on the neonatal unit.
The service can also ease pressure on ward staff, allowing clinical teams to concentrate on patient care.
Rebecca Baldaro-Booth, director of Grants and Impact at Leeds Hospitals Charity, said: “The Charity Trolley shows how small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
“It’s only thanks to the generosity of our donors and dedication of our volunteers that we have been able to expand this fantastic initiative.
“By bringing refreshments, comfort and conversation directly to the bedside, together we can create small moments that matter, helping to brighten someone’s day and remind them they are not alone.”