The Softcat News Team
Our Love2Give and EDN (Empowering Disability and Neurodiversity) community networks have collectively raised over £10,000, which will go towards establishing a partnership with Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH), as well as contributing to life-saving equipment and child-friendly spaces. A team from Softcat presented the cheque to Birmingham Children’s Hospital on Thursday 18 July. Additionally, the funds have supported the recently launched "It Starts Here" project to transform the hospital's front entrance into a more welcoming space for patients, ensuring they feel at ease and safe when they enter.
The current hospital’s main entrance is cramped, dull, unwelcoming, and doesn’t reflect the world-class care that takes place beyond it. It was updated almost thirty years ago, and families find it stressful to navigate and the environment doesn’t put them or their children at ease.
Birmingham Children’s Hospital is a leading specialist paediatric centre, providing expert care to over 90,000 children and young people annually. The hospital offers a wide range of services, and is committed to providing outstanding care and support to children and their families, making it a cornerstone of paediatric healthcare in the UK.
Helen Miles, Head of Corporate Partnerships at BCH Charity, said: "We’re thrilled to have Softcat join our Changemaker family, bringing our total of like-minded businesses and individuals to over 30.
"Driven by a passion to be a part of a collective change for good, this visionary network is committed to supporting our Children’s Hospital. We're so grateful that Softcat has started its journey with us by donating to our new It Starts Here Appeal to transform our main entrance into a bright, spacious and child-friendly entrance which helps reduce the fear and anxiety of our patients ahead of appointments.
"We can't wait to see what fundraising plans they have for the year ahead and all that we can achieve together for our young patients."
For Birmingham-based Services Engagement Resource Planner (Softcat) and BCH Ambassador Kian Saville, the hospital holds significant value. When Kian’s life threw its toughest challenges at his family, BCH stood by them with unwavering kindness and support. Kian has undergone numerous surgeries and procedures within those walls – two brain surgeries lasting over 22 hours in total and the start of his chemotherapy journey almost ten years ago. But it wasn’t just about medical care; they cared for his spirit and shaped who Kian is today. For many like Kian, the hospital isn’t just a place; it’s a sanctuary of compassion and resilience.
Kian said: “We are honoured to participate in the esteemed Changemaker programme, a venture that not only supports our local community but also provides support to our employees who have been positively affected by the exceptional services of the hospital. The dedicated staff at this institution work relentlessly each day to extend their support to families and children across the Midlands. Their unwavering commitment is truly commendable. We look forward to contributing to this noble cause and making a meaningful difference in our community.”