Media Release
Date: 9 February 2021
Blue sky thinking for RUH patients
Radiotherapy patients at the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust can now enjoy relaxing views of a sunny blue sky while they wait for their appointments, thanks to a new 'window' which has been installed in the ceiling of the outpatient waiting area.
Instead of a real window, the sunny scene is actually created by using a series of light panels that create a realistic image and is all thanks to patient Allan Sinclair, who donated them to the department.
Allan, who has just completed radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer at the RUH, said: "It was just my way of giving back something to the staff here who have looked after me so well.
"I just can't thank the staff enough. From the reception staff, to the radiographers and the consultants, the care I've received has been second to none.
"At the RUH you are treated like an individual, you're not just a number, and that's what makes the staff here so special."
Allan owns the company Sky Inside, which provides sky ceilings and artificial windows to healthcare companies and NHS Trusts throughout the country.
The Radiotherapy department isn't the only one at the RUH to have such eye-catching features - departments including intensive care and cardiology also have similar windows.
Allan said: "It's a very simple and effective way to brighten up a waiting room or gloomy corridor and can really help lift your mood."
In addition to being donated the new window, the light panels were installed free of charge by electrical contractor Electrio.
Lisa Tolson, Radiotherapy Service Manager, said: "We're so grateful to Allan for such a wonderful gesture. The new window really brightens up the waiting area and it's already receiving lots of positive feedback from our patients and staff."