NHS CHARITIES UNVEIL NEW SCULPTURE

Two NHS charities in the region have unveiled a new sculpture for patients, relatives and staff at Moseley Hall Hospital.

Birmingham Community Healthcare (BCHC) Charity, together with Caring Minds, the charity of Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (BSMHFT) which is co-located on the Moseley site, have commissioned a local artist to create a dandelion sculpture as the centrepiece for their Garden of Reflection.

The new sculpture was unveiled by BCHC’s Chief Executive, Richard Kirby, on Wednesday 3 July – during the week of the NHS Birthday.

The dandelion was chosen as Birmingham Community Healthcare’s symbol for end-of-life services in 2020, to signify not only the fragility of life but also the resilience of those that remain to carry on.

Sarah Binks, BCHC Charity Manager, said: “Much of our focus during the COVID pandemic was funding items to keep patients entertained when they couldn’t have visitors, as well as boosting patient and staff wellbeing and morale.

“After the pandemic, discussions started around how we could enhance our green spaces with suitable places for quiet reflection and to remember loved ones and dedicated colleagues.

“As part of this project, we funded a new Garden of Reflection at Moseley Hall Hospital and our centrepiece - the dandelion - acts as a focal point to reflect and remember, as well as being a tribute to the dedication, compassion, and strength of our NHS.

“The sculpture also includes a subtle nod to our two charities – with stars representing the BCHC Charity’s wish to ‘spread the sparkle’ and the swirl from the Caring Minds charity logo at the base showing strength and support for anyone who accesses their services.”

Caring Minds Charity Manager Louise John says, “The Caring Minds charity is delighted to be able to support such valuable spaces for our colleagues and service users to enjoy. The Garden of Reflection offers a safe and peaceful environment for all to take a moment and gather their thoughts, or simply just take time to relax and take the load off. The beautiful statue is the finishing touch needed to set this space off and we are very excited to share it with everyone!”

The statue was designed and made by public artist Luke Perry using repurposed materials from RNLI lifeboats. He said: “It is such an honour to be able to create something for our beloved NHS, without which myself, and many of my loved ones, would not be here. We all owe this wonderful institution a great debt, this has allowed me to repay some of my own.”

“Making the piece at this time of year was perfect as there have been so many dandelions that I have been able to spend time observing in the wild, I have found a new appreciation for this beautiful wildflower.”

The Garden of Reflection also includes a 'Wall of Tributes’ where individuals can choose to fund a personalised plaque in memory or in honour of a loved one who has passed.*