New name for North Devon’s hospital charity Over and Above

North Devon hospital charity Over and Above will be known as Royal Devon Hospitals Charity from this week.

The charity, which raises money to provide facilities and equipment beyond what is possible solely with NHS funding, has joined forces with the RD&E Charity.

The change follows the merger of Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust and the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust in April last year.

Ian Roome, head of fundraising for the newly-named Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, said the merger had presented both charities with an opportunity to do even more for hospitals in north, mid and east Devon.

“Nothing has changed other than the name; the money raised in North Devon can stay local and remains ring-fenced for the cause it was raised for,” said Mr Roome.

“But by working together, the two charities have been able to pool their knowledge, resources, systems and processes, making us more efficient and meaning more money goes directly to our hospitals, wards and services.”

Since forming in 2011, Over and Above has raised £2.2m to build the Seamoor Chemotherapy Centre and £1.5m for the Fern Centre, both at North Devon District Hospital. The charity continues to fund the cancer and wellbeing centre, as well as countless other hospital wards and departments.

“We’re proud of our past but excited about our future and what we can do together,” added Mr Roome.

“Donations can be used to fund new state-of the-art equipment, create world-class patient and staff environments, support additional staff training and wellbeing projects, and fund cutting-edge research and development.

“Altogether, there are more than 250 different funds, so you can raise money for the specific hospital, ward or service that you choose to support.

“Or if you’d prefer, you can raise money for general funds and we’ll ensure the money is used by Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, wherever the need is greatest.

“People in North Devon have been incredibly supportive of their local NHS and have helped leave an incredible legacy for healthcare in the area.

“We hope they will continue to support and help Royal Devon Hospitals Charity do brilliant things for our NHS in North Devon.”

The find out more about Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, visit www.royaldevoncharity.org.uk