The updated children’s playground at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Hospital will be officially unveiled on 26 July by Sports Broadcaster Jake Humphrey.

The playground was built and funded by the hospital charity through donations from organisations and individuals. It features a beach hut and a ‘boat’ play tower as a link to the Jenny Lind’s theme of the seaside.

Children and staff from the children’s department helped decide on the final design of the playground, as they were given the opportunity to give ideas on what they would like to see and these were incorporated into the final design by Playdale.

Emma Dolman, Matron of Children Services said; “This playground will create a fun area for children and their families visiting the hospital. We wanted the playground to have a positive social impact on the community by creating opportunities for play and fun.”

The playground is located near the paediatric department and is designed around discovery and adventure; featuring music play, play towers, spinner, seating and landscaping to promote a sense of playfulness and adventure.

Emma McKay, NNUH Director of Nursing said: “The playground was a great initiative by the hospital charity and will provide a fun environment for paediatric patients and children visiting the hospital to play outdoors and spend time with their loved ones.

“The playground will add a dimension of fun for children visiting the hospital, and contribute to a positive and welcoming experience for families”.

‘We are incredible grateful for all the people and organisations which have contributed to the charity to make this playground possible which includes the support of our partners Serco and Octagon at the hospital. We wanted people to understand how important play is for our many children who visit and stay at the hospital and we are delighted that Jake has taken the time to come and open our new play area.”

Louise Cook, Fundraising Manager added, ‘ We are hoping that people will see and understand the importance of the hospital charity and how it can contribute to enhancing the care people received at the NNUH and Cromer Hospitals. The Jenny Lind Children’s department is the second oldest in the country and we hope more people will take this opportunity and support the Jenny Lind in future.”

The NNUH Hospital charity is a local hospital charity which supports local families and children. If anyone would like to support then please get in touch on 01603 287107 or email [email protected]