NHS staff launch new charity project at Exeter’s Royal Devon hospital

NHS staff at the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital have created a charity cookbook to help fund a new garden for some of the hospital’s most critically ill patients.

The book, Intensive Food: Recipes that Bloom, brings together dishes contributed by Intensive Care Unit staff, their families and friends. 

More than 200 copies of the limited-edition first print run have already been sold since its launch at the hospital on Thursday.

Staff behind the project say the cookbook reflects the diverse backgrounds of the ICU team, featuring recipes passed down through generations as well as family favourites from around the world. 

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All proceeds from the £12.50 book will go towards a £150,000 appeal to build a dedicated ICU garden at the RD&E.

Project leads say the new outdoor space could transform the experience of patients who often spend weeks or months in intensive care, unable to go outside or even see daylight.

At present, wheeling patients to the hospital’s main entrance (along with essential medical equipment) is the only way to give them any access to fresh air.

The proposed garden would convert an underused outdoor area into an accessible, private space designed specifically for patients and their families. 

Those involved in the project say evidence shows that green space can support recovery and emotional wellbeing during long hospital stays.

The cookbook was developed with help from local businesses and volunteers, including Short Run Press, editor Lorna Hawthorne, designer Anna Brown and artist Kathy Smith. 

Kings Garden & Leisure provided sponsorship, while SJB Foods and West Country Food Service donated prizes for the launch raffle.

Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, which is supporting the appeal, said the project represents the kind of enhancement to care that goes beyond what NHS funding can usually provide.

Copies of Intensive Food: Recipes that Bloom are available at Kings Garden & Leisure in Exmouth and Sidmouth. 

Information about the ICU Garden Project and donation options is available via the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity website.