Hospital patients watch the Olympics thanks to charity’s sporting gesture

Hundreds of people staying in hospital have been keeping entertained by cheering on the Olympics from their beds.

Epsom and St Helier Hospitals Charity is funding free TV for patients for the duration of the Games, in an act that could even help boost patient recovery.

It means magic moments – from Team GB’s storming medal run, to outstanding performances from international stalwarts – are available to watch from 535 beds across the Trust’s two acute hospitals.

One Olympics-mad patient thought she had struck gold when she heard about the screenings. Janice Craven, who stayed at St Helier Hospital for a week after fracturing her spine, “absolutely loves” the Games – with gymnastics and rowing her favourite sports.

“Having the Olympics funded on the TV has made my stay in hospital so much more bearable,” she said.

“I don't want to be in hospital, but I was saying to my daughter that this is the best timing with the Olympics being on to keep me entertained. I've been watching all day, every day.”

As well as keeping people like Janice amused and distracted, watching the Olympics could help patients’ mental health, which can play a crucial role in physical recovery.

Theresa Matthews, Chief Nurse for Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust said: “While our patients receive great care from our dedicated teams, staying in hospital can be difficult and isolating. We’re so grateful to our charity for providing this funding, which is helping our patients to stay busy and engaged.”

Molly Simpson, Head of Charity, said: “It wouldn’t be possible to support people like Janice in this way without donations from our incredible supporters – which include former patients and community supporters. With a few days of the Olympics still to go, we hope even more patients will be able to tune in.”

You can find out more about the Epsom and St Helier Hospitals Charity at: www.esthcharity.org.uk