L-R: Caitlin, Ibiyemi, Chidi, Ariana and Laia Follow our X account @RoyalFreeNHS to see what our patients and staff are saying about us Arsenal players spread festive cheer to children’s ward 3 to the November/December edition of our bi-monthly staff, members and governors’ magazine. Winter is here and I know staff across our hospitals will be working exceptionally hard to meet the demand we see for our services. One of our first stories on page 4 acknowledges our CFH theatre team who have achieved over 80% theatre utilisation recently. We also highlight the vital work of our psychological professionals who support our patients on their medical journeys on page 6, and the journey of one of our patients turned nurse on page 10. The children’s wards at BH, North Mid and RFH have welcomed some special guests who came bearing gifts for our young patients. You can read more about how they spread some Christmas cheer opposite. Our Royal Free Charity Pets as Therapy dogs in their finest festive wear also bring joy to our patients and staff on page 5. Next year, we will be launching our new trust values which have been shaped by you. We’ve outlined some key themes which have emerged from your ideas and are putting them to the test – read about the next steps for the project on page 10. I hope you all manage to get some well-earned rest over the festive period. Thank you once again for all that you continue to do for our patients and our communities. Two international stars of women’s football spread festive cheer as they visited the children’s ward at the RFH earlier this month. Australia’s player Caitlin Foord and Spain’s star Laia Codina, who both play for the Arsenal women’s team, took time out of their busy schedule to meet with patients and their families, delivering gifts including signed merchandise. Among the children they met was eight-year-old Madison, who was delighted with the surprise visit. She said: “It’s amazing to meet them. I’m a fan of the Chelsea men’s team, but now I’m also a fan of the Arsenal women’s team. I’ve just asked my mum if I can have tickets to a match for my birthday in January.” Madison added that she loved the team tracksuit she received and wanted to put it on as soon as possible. Caitlin and Laia also met Ibiyemi and Chidi, parents of five-month-old Ariana – who became instantly attached to an Arsenal teddy complete with a white and red striped scarf. Dad Chidi said: “It’s wonderful to meet them. We are really lucky because this is not an everyday thing. Now Ariana has seen Caitlin and Laia, I hope she will grow up and play for Arsenal. “I’m originally from Nigeria where women’s football is really big so I’m so pleased we got to spend time with them. We’re really grateful.” During the visit, the players also met with staff on the ward and took photos with them. Play specialist Siobhan McCurry said: “It really brightens up the children’s day. It’s not easy being in hospital and this makes such a difference. It also picks up the staff after a busy day, it’s joyous and we really appreciate the visit.” Hello and welcome I hope she will grow up and play for Arsenal “ “ Peter Landstrom Group chief executive Key to abbreviations: Barnet Hospital: BH Chase Farm Hospital: CFH North Middlesex University Hospital: North Mid Royal Free Hospital: RFH Royal Free London: RFL 2 Madison, with Caitlin and Laia
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