Staff at the Surgical Day Bed Unit (SDBU) at Vale of Leven Hospital have transformed an outdoor space into a welcoming garden area for both patients and staff.
The initiative, led by Senior Charge Nurse Christine Kilday and the dedicated team, has created an area of comfort and calm to the unit’s surroundings.
“This was the brainchild of one of the team (Lorna Bruce, Healthcare Support Worker),” Christine explained. “Lorna approached me about a year and a half ago with the idea, and it just grew from there—quite literally!”
The project began with donated furniture, including benches, chairs, and a table. The seller, upon learning the items were for NHS staff, generously gifted them to the unit. Staff members then added cushions, plants, and even a handmade plaque to complete the space.
“It’s become a lovely area for staff to take a break and for patients to relax before surgery,” Christine said. “Especially on sunny days, it’s a peaceful spot for those feeling anxious before their procedure.”
The garden has already made a positive impact. “The feedback has been great,” Christine added. “Even the surgeons have been spotted enjoying the space during their breaks.”
The SDBU team’s efforts don’t stop at the garden. Christine praised her colleagues for their ongoing commitment to patient care and community support.
“We’ve got a great group here,” she said. They work hard and support each other. At Christmas, they donate to local food and toy banks instead of doing Secret Santa.”
The Surgical Day Bed Unit itself plays a vital role in the community, offering same-day elective procedures across a range of specialities, including urology, gynaecology, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, and general surgery.
The team also supports the hospital’s endoscopy service, rotating between departments to maintain a high level of skill and variety in their work.
Christine highlighted the importance of the service to the local population: “It’s hugely important for the community to have access to these procedures locally.
“Patients from further afield often arrive unsure, but by the time they leave, they’re asking to come back.”
