Bringing the Wild to Life in our Children's Emergency Department

Commissioned through a generous donation from the Pied Piper Appeal, the stunning artwork features a variety of animals including monkeys, hippos, giraffes, zebras, elephants, flamingos and turtles, designed to bring comfort and a sense of adventure to young patients and their families.

This creative initiative was coordinated by Anoushka Duroe-Richards, the hospital trust's Arts Coordinator, who worked closely with Emergency Department (ED) colleagues to ensure that the artwork would resonate with young visitors. The staff chose to explore the jungle theme as it brings a playful and calming atmosphere to the often-intimidating environment of the emergency department.

The installation includes large-scale wall vinyls that brighten up the department, a jungle-themed welcome sign in multiple languages and artwork in the treatment rooms, ensuring a visually engaging and soothing environment throughout the unit. A standout feature is a special "spot the difference" artwork, where children can find 20 differences between two jungle scenes - an activity designed to distract and entertain young patients while they wait.

Anoushka Duroe-Richards expressed her enthusiasm for the project:

"We wanted to create a space that would make children feel at ease, even in stressful situations like they face when attending our ED. Our Arts in Trust programme allows us to make these aspirations a reality by collaborating on projects that create healing, humanising spaces that are personal and meaningful to the patients who use them."

Richard Smith, Associate Director of Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity expressed the gratitude of the hospitals for the donation:

“This incredible artwork has transformed the environment for local children and families at a time when they might be particularly vulnerable or in pain, and we are incredibly grateful for the continued support of The Pied Piper Appeal who have kindly granted funding to make this possible.

"The Arts in Trust programme relies on donations like this to enhance the environment, and our thanks to all those who give their support through donations, fundraising and gifts in wills to make improvements like this possible.”

The staff at the Children’s Emergency Department are equally thrilled with the results, with one staff member commenting:

"This artwork has completely transformed the atmosphere in our department. It’s no longer just a clinical space; it’s now a place where children feel safe and distracted from the anxiety of being in hospital. We see the impact on their faces as soon as they walk in - it’s incredibly rewarding."

This unique collaboration between artist Alice Humphreys, the hospital trust's arts team and ED staff demonstrates the power of art to make a real difference in healthcare settings, helping to reduce anxiety and promote healing for young patients.

The jungle theme is also reflected in external signage directing patients to the Children's ED entrance.