the family of a past patient, Patrick Fanning
West Herts Hospitals Charity – the official charity for West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – has opened a new staff wellbeing room at St Albans City Hospital, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the community, fundraisers and local donors.
The new Cathedral Wellbeing Room, named for its view of St Albans Cathedral, was officially opened on Wednesday 17 September 2025, providing a modern, dedicated space for staff to relax and recharge. The room features a fully equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar, spacious dining and lounge areas, and a private treatment room, all designed to support the mental wellness of hardworking NHS staff.
The £40,000 fundraising goal was achieved through incredible community support, including a major donation that helped the charity reach its target. In a touching tribute, the family and friends of a past patient, Patrick Fanning, also contributed £490 in his memory.
Fundraising efforts were led by St Albans City Hospital Site Director Nuala Littlechild and colleagues Hannah Reynolds and Sarahjane Turner, who took on exercise challenges completing 31 minutes of exercise each day in January. Nuala continued her efforts by abseiling from the roof of One YMCA in Watford on Saturday 8 February, joined by colleagues Sarahjane Turner, Matron for Surgery, Anaesthetics and Cancer, Senior Relationship Manager Colin Gray, James Ingall from GSCI Consulting and Mima Moore.
Nuala Littlechild, Site Director at St Albans City Hospital, said: “Seeing this new wellbeing room become a reality is fantastic. Our staff work tirelessly, and having a dedicated space where they can truly relax and recharge is vital. This room is a testament to the community's support and demonstrates our commitment to looking after the people who care for us every day. I'm so proud of my colleagues who fundraised for this and deeply grateful to everyone who donated.”
Alison Rosen, CEO of West Herts Hospitals Charity added:
“The opening of the Cathedral Wellbeing Room demonstrates what can be achieved when our community comes together, going above and beyond what NHS funding can provide alone. We want to extend our thanks to Nuala and her team, and all the dedicated donors and supporters who made the wellbeing room possible."
ENDS
Notes to editors
West Herts Hospitals Charity
West Herts Hospitals Charity is dedicated to supporting patient care at Hemel Hempstead, St Albans City and Watford General hospitals.
Every patient deserves the highest quality care, and charitable donations help fund the latest technology, environmental enhancements, staff development and extra comforts that make such a difference to patients, day after day, above and beyond what the NHS can afford alone.
Registered charity number: 1052210
For more information contact Natalie Halliwell-Jennings on 07585 299495 or email Natalie.
Social media @RaiseWestHerts