Hospital sky lights bring hope and joy to patients

12 APRIL 2024

A calming light installation at York Hospital has been unveiled and it is already making a ‘huge difference’ to vulnerable patients.

The light panels now bring a touch of the outdoors to brighten hospital procedures thanks to a local electrical company. Since the recent installation of the LED sky panels, staff have noticed they bring a symbol of ‘hope, joy and comfort’ to those facing tough times.

The daughter of a patient, who directly experienced the effect of the panels, expressed her ‘amazement’ at the impact it had on her father’s wellbeing.

She explained: “The illusion of an open sky and natural light brought an unexpected sense of luxury and comfort to my father, creating an experience I never thought possible within a hospital setting.”

The innovative sky panels do not just illuminate the space; they bring a bit of outdoors inside, with their lifelike display of the sky, they provide a refreshing escape for patients confined indoors for extended periods.

The new lights, at York Hospital’s High Dependency Unit (HDU), were provided by John Wright Electrical & Mechanical Services, who have worked with the Trust on many projects over several years.

Their recent donation and installation of eight modern LED sky panel tiles has completely revolutionised the environment, creating a vibrant and soothing atmosphere for patients.

Tony Smith, Small Works Director, from John Wright Electrical, said: “We were more than pleased to be able to donate the sky panels above the bed bays. The patients who require these beds are generally very poorly and if one patient gets a smile looking at them then we are delighted.  We were very happy to assist with the upgrade of this vital area of the hospital.”

Elaine Hunter, Lead Nurse in Critical Care (ICU), said having the panels is a welcome distraction for such poorly patients in such a clinical environment, making the experience more positive and comforting.

She shared her excitement about the positive impact of the sky panels on patients and their families.

She explained: “It is so important that this experience is as calm as possible, creating a calming environment for patients.  We have received a great response to the sky panels. Adding a touch of the outdoors to brighten up patients’ day makes a real difference.”

Elaine added: “Thanks to John Wright Electricals’ contribution, it is more than just a technical improvement. It’s a comfort for patients facing such tough times.”

Rachel Brook, Charity Manager, said: “I’d like to thank John Wright Electrical for their generous donation. York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity is now looking to support the HDU team to fund more panels so even more patients can benefit.”