The Mick George Community Foundation has helped to fund a new patient and community sanctuary at Royal Papworth Hospital.

The sanctuary will play a role in determining a patient’s suitability to be discharged from the new Royal Papworth Hospital, which moved from its home in Papworth Everard to the Cambridge Biomedical Campus in May.

Royal Papworth Charity successfully secured over £100,000 to fund the construction of the Community Sanctuary including a £50,000 grant from the Mick George Foundation .

Historically, a pond at the Papworth Everard setting was used as a novel yardstick in challenging patients to complete two circuits to distinguish if they were ‘well’ enough to leave the hospital’s care.

Royal Papworth Hospital is the UK’s leading heart and lung hospital that treats more than 100,000 patients each year. The new sanctuary, which includes a pond, community seating area, and open green space located to the west side of the hospital provides beautiful views and a calming atmosphere for both patients and their families, whilst also offering a suitable environment for events.

Maxine Taylor, Partnerships Manager at Royal Papworth Charity, said: “The community sanctuary project has already begun to help to integrate Royal Papworth Hospital into our new community. The outdoor furniture has added a real sense of community as people have come together to enjoy meals, coffees and even take meetings outside.

“We couldn’t have delivered this project without the support of the Mick George Community Fund. Together we have created a place which is welcoming, relaxing and offers a comfortable, safe place for visitors to the site to appreciate.”

While the primary focus of the new sanctuary is to serve hospital patients and families, the new amenity will also contribute to the local art strategy, featuring works of local artists.

Jon Stump, Joint Chief Executive at Mick George, said: “Having been fortunate enough to visit the site during its creation, it’s very evident that no stone has been left unturned with regards to ensuring the facility is of extremely high standards. Although early days, the results seem to be fantastic.

“We’re very proud to have played a role in helping to produce a vibrant setting that will be used and enjoyed by all patients, staff and visitors to the new Royal Papworth Hospital for generations to come.”