Polly's Pad Reopens to Support Families with Children in Hospital
Refurbished sanctuary at Basildon Hospital offers free accommodation, easing the burden on parents during stressful times.
By Rebecca Flint
••2 min read
AI
Exterior of Polly's Pad, a refurbished bungalow offering comfort to families with children in hospital.
Polly's Pad, a sanctuary for families with children in hospital, has reopened at Basildon Hospital following a refurbishment funded by The Kusuma Trust.
A much-loved bungalow that has served as a sanctuary for families facing the stress and uncertainty of having a child in hospital has reopened its doors. Polly's Pad, located at Basildon Hospital, has undergone a full refurbishment thanks to a £10,000 grant from The Kusuma Trust, administered by the Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity.
By alleviating the worries associated with travel, accommodation costs, and long commutes, this special facility enables parents to concentrate on what matters most: being present for their child. Stays at Polly's Pad are free and will be allocated to families through the hospital's Children's and Neonatal Units, ensuring prompt and easy access for those most in need.
“
"Polly's Pad gives families the opportunity to spend time together when their child is in hospital in a home-from-home environment. It allows parents and carers to rest while still being close by. We know this closeness makes a difficult time a little easier and we are so pleased that Polly's Pad is once again available to provide that vital support."
The bungalow, fully funded and maintained by the Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, features three bedrooms with en-suite shower rooms, a communal living area, and kitchen facilities.
“
"We are so pleased to reopen after a lot of work behind the scenes. Having a child in hospital can be overwhelming for families. Polly's Pad offers a special place of comfort, warmth and reassurance, all made possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters. We know this accommodation will once again play a vital role in helping children and their loved ones stay connected when they need each other the most."
The Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity continues to fund a wide range of projects aimed at enhancing the care experience for patients and their families across Basildon, Southend, and Broomfield hospitals. Further information on supporting their work is available on their website.