Queen Camilla inaugurated a new rooftop garden at a London hospital, designed to function as an outdoor ward for the hospital’s most critically ill patients. She visited St George’s Hospital, where she was welcomed by Mark Lowcock, Chair of Epsom and St Helier’s NHS Hospitals Trust.
During her visit, Queen Camilla toured the hospital and interacted with staff in the neuroscience wing. She met the matron of the neuroscience ward, who shared her long tenure at the hospital, stunning the Queen with her 22-year commitment to the ward.
Following her hospital tour, Camilla proceeded to the outdoor ward, where she engaged with patients, including one who had been hospitalized for 12 weeks. Expressing her admiration for the outdoor space’s potential impact, Queen Camilla remarked on the positive difference it could make for patients.
After unveiling the plaque to mark the official opening of the Neuro Intensive Care Balcony Garden, Camilla praised the initiative, emphasizing the benefits of fresh air for patients’ well-being. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to inaugurate the garden and was presented with a large floral bouquet upon her departure.
The rooftop garden, a joint effort between the John King Brain Tumour Foundation and St George’s Hospital Charity, has transformed an unused area into a green haven for patients requiring critical neurological care.
This outdoor ward concept has been adopted by other hospitals in London, such as King’s College Hospital, which recently opened an outdoor critical care garden on its roof. This innovative approach allows patients to receive essential care while experiencing the therapeutic effects of nature.
Equipped to accommodate up to six beds, the roof garden ensures that patients remain in close proximity to necessary medical supplies, mirroring the care provided in traditional units.
Dr. Tom Best, Clinical Director of King’s Critical Care, highlighted the importance of integrating nature into patient care, citing research showing the positive impact of nature exposure on recovery outcomes and patient well-being.
The outdoor ward initiative aligns with the hospitals’ goal of holistic patient care, addressing both physical and mental well-being to enhance overall recovery.