Celebrating the refurbishment of Whitby Hospital: a chance to engage

On Thursday 5^th May, 2.30pm at Flowergate Hall, we are holding an open meeting to meet and talk to people and groups in Whitby, who would like to take part in creating the artwork and contributing to the celebrations of the revitalisation of the Hospital.

The reopening of the Whitby Hospital Tower Block is a major commitment by the NHS towards sustaining hospital and community services within Whitby. 

As the town’s Memorial Hospital, following the First World War, this community service is at the very heart of Whitby. Having provided 21^st Century services, it is important to the Trust that those in the Whitby Community are able to have their say and have the opportunity to coproduce elements of the hospital moving forwards.

Artist Sarah Daniels has been appointed as the Lead Artist for the hospital, and we are now looking for people to come forward to support with artwork activities, to help us give the new building personality and meaning to those who may use it.

Sarah Daniels, Lead Artist, said:

“I see this as an excellent opportunity to create a unique experience for patients, visitors and staff, so the hospital becomes so much more than just a clinical and functional space. I very much welcome the chance to work with the wider community so they can tell their stories, influence the themes of the artwork, and get involved in creating a truly valuable identity for the hospital.”

As a Whitby community member, you may remember some of the paintings and artwork in the old buildings and the recent exhibitions held. This is now an opportunity to reflect and contribute towards the new artwork being developed.

Anyone from Whitby and the surrounding area are invited to play an active role in the development of this project. The Trust is especially looking for people who were born in the hospital, who have worked in the hospital, or who have been treated by hospital teams in the past, to help us mark the important role the hospital has played in so many lives.

Doff Pollard, Whitby Governor at Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“The hospital has played an important part in my life. I see this as a chance for local people from all walks of life to make this hospital special for our community. This is our chance to make our mark as so many have done before us.”

In addition, those interested in running fundraising opportunities for the hospital are invited to come forward to support the Whitby Hospital Appeal. This includes the Buy a Brick commemorative opportunity for those who want their very own piece of the hospital for years to come.  

If you are interested in being involved in these Whitby Community Hospital engagement initiatives, please join us at Flowergate Hall, close to Church House, at 2.30pm, on Thursday 5^th May, where you will be warmly welcomed.