We have launched an appeal to brighten up the children’s emergency department at Stevenage’s Lister Hospital.

The ‘Magic of Art Appeal’ is raising funds to install four large scale murals to make the spaces more friendly and welcoming for young patients and families.

The murals will be designed by Sash and Yosh, two experienced local artists who specialise in creating thoughtful and therapeutic artwork. Installation will be carried out by Aston Klein Printers in Hitchin, who produce high quality public art projects. The spaces in the department are used for triaging, breastfeeding, quiet family time, breaking difficult news and waiting for appointments.

The project will cost £9,700 in total but thanks to the support for the appeal at Todd in the Hole Festival in July, the charity has already raised £2,600.

Ten-year-old Frankie from Stevenage has been receiving regular treatment at Lister Hospital since 2023. His mum, Mandie, said: “Frankie was diagnosed with Autoimmune Hemolytic Anaemia in October 2023 and has been visiting Lister Hospital every week since. The care he has received has been exemplary: from receiving life-saving blood transfusions to staff swapping shifts to ensure Frankie feels at ease at his appointments, it has been brilliant.

“Lister doesn’t feel like a hospital when we visit. Frankie always feels welcome when he comes in, the play team are lovely and they put him, and me, at ease straight away. The bright, colourful and fun art in Bluebell Ward and the toys and activities always makes him smile. We are so proud to have raised £1,629 for the children’s ward in the past and we will definitely continue to fundraise for the new appeal to transform the emergency department to show our gratitude as we know just how important this will be for families like us that need urgent care.”

Beth McNeil, head of fundraising said: “The children's emergency department can be a daunting place for children and families facing medical uncertainty, distress or when having to have difficult conversations. The environment can play a powerful role in how they experience their care.

“The murals will transform the areas to make them as calm and welcoming as possible.  Art has the ability not only to brighten a room but to lift spirits, reduce anxiety and provide moments of peace and reflection in times of stress. We want to make our hospital a comforting space which makes such a difference to our children and their families in their time of need. Please help us if you can."