Grace Trust funding creates calming spa space for spinal injury patients at RJAH

Patients recovering from life-changing spinal cord injuries at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) are benefiting from a new calming spa environment, made possible by a £6,500 grant from The Grace Trust.

Founded in 1967, The Grace Trust supports charitable projects across the UK that improve lives through education, healthcare, humanitarian aid and community support. The Trust provides grants to initiatives that deliver lasting benefits to people and communities.

The funding has transformed the washroom facilities at the Midlands Centre for Spinal Injuries (MCSI), creating a more welcoming and relaxing space where patients can have their hair washed, receive a haircut and access personal care during their rehabilitation.

The bid for funding was supported by hospital’s The League of Friends, whose continued commitment to enhancing patient care helped secure the grant and bring the project to life.

The new-look facility features softer décor, improved lighting, artwork, ambient music and other enhancements designed to create a less clinical atmosphere and provide greater comfort for patients.

Chris Birch, Grace Trust Liaison Manager, recently visited the newly renovated spa room. He said: "We are committed to supporting projects that make a real difference to people's lives.

"This facility will provide greater comfort, dignity and wellbeing for patients recovering from serious spinal injuries.

"During the visit, we were impressed by the dedication of the staff and the hospital's commitment to delivering outstanding specialist care. We are delighted that our grant has helped create a facility that will benefit patients for many years to come."

MCSI is one of the UK's leading specialist spinal injury centres, providing surgery, treatment and rehabilitation for patients from across the West Midlands, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Cheshire, Merseyside and North and Mid Wales.

Many patients spend several months at the centre following a spinal cord injury, learning to adapt to life-changing injuries while undergoing intensive rehabilitation.

Lauren Hutchinson, MCSI Ward Manager, said: "MCSI provides intensive rehabilitation following life-changing spinal cord injuries. Most patients stay for eight to 12 weeks, sometimes longer, often far from home and everyday comforts.

"Simple treatments such as a haircut, hair wash or manicure can greatly improve patients' wellbeing, confidence and sense of normality.

"Thanks to The Grace Trust's funding, and the support of the League of Friends in helping secure the grant, we can offer these services in a calm, welcoming space that supports recovery. We are very grateful to both organisations for their generous and continued support."