Help transform the Children’s Outpatients Department at Dewsbury and District Hospital

The Children’s Outpatients Department at Dewsbury and District Hospital supports thousands of young patients every year, providing both short-term and long-term care. More than 5,500 appointments have already taken place this year alone.

The department does an incredible job in caring for children and their families. However, with your help, MY Hospitals Charity can transform this environment from being outdated and clinical, to being colourful, inspiring and interactive.

For nearly 150 years, Dewsbury and District Hospital has been at the heart of its community, providing care for generations of families. This exciting new project continues that legacy by helping children to have the best possible experience during hospital visits and providing enhanced environments and activities that the NHS can’t fund alone.

Hospital visits can be stressful and isolating for children, but play can reduce anxiety, build emotional resilience, and even aid recovery. This transformation will make the space more than just a waiting room. It will become a place where children can relax, play, and make positive memories during challenging times.

With your help, the Charity will create a forest-themed indoor play and sensory area featuring wall-mounted games and activities, a van for imaginative play, vibrant wall graphics, and soft play furniture.

Lucy Knights, the Lead Nurse within the department, said:

“Currently, the Children’s Outpatients area at Dewsbury is outdated and children often spend extended periods in the department without opportunities for play or stimulation.

“This upgrade will make a meaningful difference for both patients and staff, creating a brighter, more welcoming, and supportive environment.”

To make this vision a reality, MY Hospitals Charity have launched an appeal to raise £15,000. Every donation, big or small, will help to create a child-friendly environment that improves experiences for families and supports the dedicated staff at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.

How you can help:

Donate online.
Text to donate: Text MYHARI to 70085 to give £5 (Texts cost the chosen donation amount plus one standard network rate message)
Attend the Charity’s events in 2026 to celebrate 150 years of Dewsbury Hospital.

For more information about the planned transformation of the Children’s Outpatients Department or to offer your support, please visit the MY Hospitals Charity website or speak to the team at midyorks.myhospitalscharity@nhs.net or 01924 546017.