We were delighted to welcome the Partnerships and Philanthropy team from NHS Charities Together to Derriford Hospital, where they experienced first-hand the lasting impact of their support on our patients, staff and community. 

 

NHS Charities Together is the national charity caring for the NHS, helping it to thrive and ensuring that everyone gets access to the healthcare they deserve. 

A Warm Welcome at Our New Charity Hub 

 

The visit began at our brand-new Charity Hub; a vibrant space where we can connect with our community and showcase the work that we do. We shared our vision for future projects and how, as a proud member of the NHS Charities Together network — supporting over 230 NHS charities across the UK — we’ve built a strong and lasting partnership. 

 

Since the launch of the COVID-19 Emergency Appeal in 2020, NHS Charities Together has awarded over £1 million in grant funding to Plymouth Hospitals Charity. These funds have supported a wide range of initiatives that benefit both our patients and NHS staff. 

Supporting Staff Through the COVID Recovery Grant 

 

One of the most transformative projects funded through this partnership was the COVID Recovery Grant of £198,000, which provided vital psychological support to our staff during an incredibly challenging time. This funding enabled us to: 

 

• Train staff to identify and respond to wellbeing needs within their teams 
• Offer direct psychological support across departments 
• Establish a network of Wellbeing Champions to promote mental health awareness and foster a culture of compassion and resilience 

 

The visit was a valuable opportunity to reflect on the impact of this support and explore new ways to collaborate on future projects. 

A Tour of the Award-Winning ICU Secret Garden 

 

NHSCT then toured the ICU Secret Garden, guided by Specialist ICU Sister Kate Tantum, who shared the inspiration and care behind its creation. Funded in part with a grant of £50k by NHS Charities Together through the COVID Urgent Relief Grant, the garden is a peaceful, purpose-built space that blends critical care with the healing power of nature. Equipped with all the necessary ICU technology, the garden also offers natural light and a tranquil outdoor setting — a unique and transformative environment for patients, families, and staff. In recognition of its impact, the ICU Secret Garden received a Patient Experience Network National Award (PENNA) last year. 

A Space for Compassionate End-of-Life Care 

 

The Organ Donation team also shared how the garden has become a meaningful part of end-of-life care. It provides a serene space where families can spend precious final moments with loved ones, away from the clinical setting of the ICU — creating lasting, peaceful memories. 

“It was such a pleasure visiting Derriford Hospital — we were truly inspired by The Secret Garden and the incredible impact it has had on patients, families and staff. We were particularly struck by how patients were placed at the heart of every element of its design. Hearing the stories of how it has made a real difference was incredibly moving and brought to life the true value of this kind of project. It's a powerful example of the work that NHS Charities Together is proud to support. We're so grateful to the Charity, Kate Tantam, and the Organ Donation team for making us feel so welcome.”

— Rachael Bull, Senior Partnerships and Philanthropy Manager, NHS Charities Together 

Looking Ahead 

 

Together, we’re building a more compassionate, resilient NHS for the future. We’re excited to continue working with NHS Charities Together to deliver impactful, evidence-based projects that enhance care for everyone who uses our hospitals. 

 

Learn more about our projects and the impact of NHS Charities Together grants: