Date: 4th June 2026

At the beginning of 2026, £11,000 of charitable donations was invested to enhance the recovery journey of patients on Ward 3 (Bone Cancer Ward). Through this funding, seven brand-new self-propelled wheelchairs, each fitted with specialist cushions, were introduced to support inpatient care, particularly for oncology patients undergoing life-changing treatments.

This investment has already made a meaningful difference, both clinically and personally, for patients and staff alike.

For the Occupational Therapy (OT) team, access to appropriate equipment is essential in delivering effective rehabilitation. The additional wheelchairs funded by ROC have enabled therapists to carry out more timely assessments, reducing delays caused by limited availability, and to provide structured mobility practice as part of patients’ recovery pathways.

Tracy Gilbert, Clinical Specialist Orthopaedic Oncology Occupational Therapist, reflected on the difference this has made:

“Limited wheelchair availability previously resulted in situations where patients were restricted to transferring only into standard ward chairs or relying on porters when wishing to leave the ward. This significantly impacts their independence post-surgery and increased dependence on staff/family when our goal as OT’s is to support and promote patient independence in their everyday activities. A wheelchair provision on our ward is invaluable for restoring patient independence, mobility and confidence.”

For many patients, particularly those recovering from oncology-related amputations, regaining independence can feel like an overwhelming challenge. The availability of wheelchairs has played a crucial role in restoring that independence.

“For patients, having access to a wheelchair is about so much more than mobility,” Tracy explained. “It’s about regaining control, dignity, and confidence after what is often a life-changing experience.”

By enabling patients to move more freely, the wheelchairs contribute to a more dignified and empowering patient journey.

While the benefits for patients are clear, the OT team at ROH also experienced a positive impact on service delivery. Access to appropriate equipment supports more efficient assessments, improved therapeutic interventions, and more effective discharge planning.

This investment by ROC highlights the powerful role that charitable funding can play in enhancing patient care. The provision of enhanced equipment has not only improved clinical outcomes but has also enriched the overall patient experience, supporting both physical rehabilitation and emotional wellbeing.

Ruth Hughes, Fundraising Manager, also shared her reflections:

“It’s been lovely to see patients, staff, and families using these wheelchairs across the site and to witness the impact first-hand. We’ve seen families enjoying lunch together in the courtyard, which is special to see.”

With continued support, ROC can help deliver more initiatives like this—providing essential equipment, enhancing rehabilitation, and restoring independence for patients when they need it most.

If you would like to support projects like this and make a difference to patients and their families, please consider donating or getting involved with ROC. Every contribution helps us continue to improve care, comfort, and outcomes across the hospital.