Letters to Loved Ones delivering festive cheer to patients
A ‘first class’ idea is helping relatives and friends spread cheer to their loved ones who are receiving care across hospitals in mid and south Essex over the Christmas period.
The Letters to Loved Ones scheme invites families and friends to pen thoughtful messages to patients, helping lift spirits during their hospital stay.
It’s a scheme run by Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust's Patient Experience team all year round, but takes on even greater importance during the festive season.
For those unable to visit due to distance or other reasons, this service offers a vital connection. Letters and messages of hope are sent through the Patient Experience team and delivered directly to patients at Southend, Basildon or Broomfield hospitals.
Edward Aruoture, Patient Experience Coordinator at the Trust, said: "These messages have a huge impact on patients. They bring comfort and a sense of connection at a time when being away from loved ones can feel especially hard.
"Seeing the joy on patients’ faces when they receive a letter is truly heart-warming. It doesn’t just lift their spirits; it can even play a role in their recovery. It’s a beautiful reminder that the simplest gestures can make all the difference."
For those wanting to send a letter to their loved ones in time for Christmas, the deadline is 12pm on Monday 23 December, to make sure that the notes of love and support reach them in time.
Letters can be emailed to the Patient Experience team directly at mse.patientexperiene@nhs.net, or a form can be filled in directly at Patient Experience at MSE.