Back in 2019, we launched the Jungle Ward Appeal. The campaign had two key aims: to make Jungle Ward suitable for the changing needs of the children cared for there, and to turn it into a bright, accessible home from home environment, where families could still enjoy their time together.

Though the pandemic meant it took longer to achieve than we’d initially hoped, last week we had the honor of launching the new improved Jungle Ward. Current inpatient, Jack, was joined my charity Chair, Eddie Hayward and  the UHB’s Chair, Kirsty Williams for the official opening. We were also delighted to welcome many of the donors, young people, families, supporters and clinical teams that played such a big role in making it all possible.

The new Jungle Ward has been designed around the ethos of 24-hour rehabilitation. It will deliver care to some of the hospital’s most vulnerable patients, including children facing longer stays and those waiting for complex packages of care. The space now has a bedroom designed specifically as a safe place for dysregulated children and young people and another with a hoist and fully accessible bathroom to support the independence of young people with significant mobility needs.  It also now houses a dedicated space for the sleep service, meaning that children don’t have to rely on there being a free bed on inpatient wards for an overnight stay.

Having listened to the needs of children and young people, the new ward now has an adaptable and accessible playroom with dedicated space for young people and a carers lounge where parents can relax in the evenings. Excitingly,  it also features artwork by local artist Suzanne Carpenter, who worked in consultation with Noah’s Ark patients past and present on the designs.

It’s been a long journey, but we’re so hugely grateful to each and every donor, partner, group, trust and hospital family that helped get us here.