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← West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Charity

2025-03-31-accounts

Supporting excellent patient care Charity no. 1052210

Annual Report & Accounts For the year ended 31 March 2025

Report and Accounts 2025

Contents

West Herts Hospitals Charity

Sycamore House Watford General Hospital Watford Hertfordshire WD18 0HB

Tel: 01923 436182 Web: whhc.org.uk Email: westherts.hospitalscharity@nhs.net Facebook and LinkedIn: west herts hospital charity Insta: westhertshospitalcharity

Registered charity no: 1052210 © West Herts Hospitals Charity 2025

Above:

A Touch of Magic for Hemel’s Youngest Patients On the 27th September 2024, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London volunteers brought magic to Hemel Hempstead Hospital’s children’s area with a colourful makeover—brightening walls and young patients alike.

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|||| |---|---|---| |1.|About our Trust .................................................................................................4| |2.|About our Charity ...........................................................................................5| |3.|Message from the Charity CEO Alison Rosen ......................|7| |4.|Chair’s Overview Jonathan Rennison ..........................................8| |5|Charity Patron| |Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss| |CBE CStJ Hon.LLD|......................................................................................... 10| |6.|New Charity Ambassador -| |Watford Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann ..................................12| |7.|Highlights of our Year ................................................................................14| |• Developing and Supporting staff|[ ..............................................]|16| |• Patient experience|[ ..................................................................................]|22| |• Patient physical environment|[ ......................................................]|28| |• Medical equipment|[ ...............................................................................]|38| |8.|How we did it ...................................................................................................42| |• No mountain high enough|[...............................................................]|42| |• Step up|[ ...............................................................................................................]|44| |• Bake off|[ ..............................................................................................................]|46| |9.|Thank you ............................................................................................................ 48| |11.|Our volunteers ................................................................................................ 49| |10. In memory and legacies .......................................................................|50| |• Tribute to Norman Tyrwhitt|[ ...........................................................]|52| |• Remembering Mike Carruthers|[ ................................................]|56| |• Legacies|............................................................................................................|58| |• Lotto|[ ....................................................................................................................]|60| |12. Looking ahead ................................................................................................. 62| |• Art in hospitals|[ ...........................................................................................]|62| |• Children’s outpatients appeal| |Sensory play areas|...................................................................................|64| |• Wellbeing room|[ ........................................................................................]|66| |13. Ways you can help ...................................................................................... 68| |14. Our structure, governance and management ................ 70| |15. Reference and administration regulation ...........................73| |16. Financial review ..............................................................................................74| |17. Independent examiner’s report .....................................................76| |18. Financial statements ................................................................................77|

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Report and Accounts 2025

West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

Staff/budget

Patients/activity

About our charity

We support the strategic priorities of the Trust in providing the best healthcare for its catchment area of 652,000 people from across the region and beyond - raising standards above the level that NHS funding alone allows.

We do this by funding the latest technology, capital and environmental enhancements, staff development, research and extra comforts that make such a difference to patients, day after day.

Our supporters

Donors and fundraisers are central to all we do, and deserve an outstanding experience when engaging with us, so that they feel valued. It is also important that they are confident that their contributions are making an impact..

We believe that….

Sustainability

We are keen to support the Trust in its ambition to deliver environmentally sustainable care. To do this, we will ensure that our grant-giving process considers environmental impact or benefit alongside other considerations. We will also review the environmental impact of our fundraising and other activities, as well as reviewing the environmental credentials of our own suppliers.

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How we deliver

Charitable funding plays a vital role in ensuring patients benefit from the latest innovations and receive the highest standard of care.

We are the only registered charity dedicated to supporting patient care across West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. We believe every patient deserves the highest standard of care - whether it’s support through pregnancy, emergency care, treatment for long-term conditions or compassion in their final days.

Thanks to the generous support of our donors, staff across our three hospitals can offer a level of care that goes beyond what NHS funding alone can provide.

• Developing staff – We support initiatives that help staff develop their skills and expand their knowledge, empowering them to deliver even better care. Charitable funds also support staff wellbeing by funding programmes like fitness classes and dedicated relaxation spaces.

Total Income 2024/25

Total Expenditure 2024/25

• Total income £966,000 • Total expenditure £1,294,000 O Donations, grants O Patient and staff welfare £417,000 and sponsorship £357,000 Other charitable activities £439,000 Legacies £1,000 Generating funds £452,000 Lottery income £308,000 Gifts in kind £192,000 Investment income £36,000 Other activities including events £72,000

Message from the charity CEO a

It has been an incredible first full year for me as part of West Herts Hospitals Charity and working with all the staff in our NHS Trust.

We have continued to grow, and have come very close to our £1m income target.

We intend to continue funding groundbreaking equipment that will improve results for cancer patients, particularly where this addresses health inequalities.

It has been an absolute privilege to see the results of our fundraising come to fruition, which is all thanks to our grateful patients, community donors, fantastic corporates and other partners. In the last year, we opened our Interventional Radiology scanner. It has already been used for over 100 patients and will literally save lives. In addition, we continue to invest in activities that make all the difference to the patient experience, by creating calm, healthy environments and providing additional comforts that make a meaningful difference. This year, we were delighted to open a refurbished Maternity Bereavement Room and by partnering with For Louis Charity, we are able to provide memory boxes for families. We have also seen our Women and Children’s Wellbeing Courtyard develop.

At a time when the NHS is overstretched and there is huge pressure on NHS staff, I can say that I have personally seen tremendous compassion and excellent care for patients. The Charity continues to support NHS staff where we can and we are proud to have received funding from The Childwick Trust to support a new wellbeing space in St Albans for staff.

This year has also seen some new fundraising initiatives. We are pleased to partner with MuchLoved to grow In Memory donations for the Charity. We have also started a free wills initiative and hope to attract future legacies to provide funds that would ensure a major impact on the future of the Charity and thus the patients in our hospitals.

I am so proud that the past year has seen us reach our target of £200k for our breast cancer SAVI SCOUT® appeal. We know that prompt and accurate treatment for breast cancer is crucial to improving survival rates and minimising longterm health complications and we are delighted to have progressed the treatment at St Albans with this incredible equipment.

As you can see from this report, we are making great inroads into our strategic objectives. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support we receive from our corporate partners, community fundraisers, legacy givers, foundations and Trusts, who together help us to make a lasting impact on healthcare and the wider community.

The success of the appeal is a testimony to all the supporters and staff who worked together, and to Consultant Breast Surgeon, Miss Lee Min Lai, who led the appeal. Contributions included the Titty Trail challenge event, a very significant donation from Boot Out Breast Cancer, plus donations from the amazing Crafty Ladies in St Albans and many others. We hope that as we approach our 30th anniversary in December 2025, we can continue our history of funding innovation within West Herts.

Every donation plays a vital role in ensuring that we continue to offer excellent support to staff and patients who need it the most.

Alison Rosen

CEO West Herts Hospitals Charity

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Chair’s overview

The Charity has seen a year of growth and we continue to be very ambitious about our future plans.

We are delighted to have the Lord Lieutenant Robert Voss as our Patron, and significant support from Watford Football Club with Captain Dan Bachmann as our Ambassador. We are also privileged to have the support of the Mayor Peter Taylor and were pleased to be a beneficiary of his Charity Christmas Card.

24/25 was a year of establishing a governance framework that will allow us to grow. We are delighted to have expanded our Charity Committee, which has brought in new staff representatives from the Trust and also from the community. This gives us an increased skills base to move forward with future plans.

Late 25/26 will be our 30th anniversary and we have exciting plans for the philanthropic world. Additionally, with the support of local communities in West Hertfordshire, we plan to support our initiatives that enable us to fund projects across our lifecycle, from neonatal, Starfish children’s wards, innovative cancer equipment through to End of Life volunteering. In particular, we are planning an amazing Christmas Concert at St Albans Cathedral and a Festive Gala Dinner at The Grove Hotel.

The coming years are full of opportunity: with a proposed new hospital at Watford in the next decade, the increased development of St Albans as a centre and the opportunity to be part of a new Community Health Centre in Hemel. All of these projects rely on special project funding and we are hoping to develop a Philanthropy Board to take these fundraising opportunities forward.

In line with all of the above, the new Charity Committee is developing a long-term strategy for publication in 25/26. The strategy will include focus areas such as increased partnerships and working in the community to support improvements in health - particularly around frailty, cancer and chronic disease. We are looking into how we support innovation, address healthcare inequalities, support repatriation into the local community and maximise impact.

As we look ahead, we thank every donor for giving, whether it is through a Christmas gift or a major project. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. The aim for 25/26 is to raise in excess of £1m; together we can take this forward.

Thank you for your outstanding contributions and commitment.

Jonathan Rennison Chair of the Charity Committee

Members of the Charity Committee with the Charity CEO

Kelly McGovern, Chief Nurse, Toby Hyde, Chief Strategy and Collaboration Officer, Alison Rosen, Charity CEO and Heather Moulder, NHS Trust Non-Executive Director and Charity Vice-Chair

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Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Appointed as Charity Patron

On 15th April 2024, the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE CStJ Hon.LLD, the King’s personal representative in the county, was appointed patron of West Herts Hospitals Charity.

As patron, the Lord-Lieutenant will reinforce the charity’s position as a key partner in the local community and support its growth. The charity aims to make a major impact in the new capital development project, sourcing innovative equipment that goes beyond what the NHS can afford alone and supporting initiatives to improve the patient experience and staff wellbeing. This includes developing green spaces such as the new wellbeing garden at Watford General, as well as enabling the expansion of art throughout the trust.

Alison Rosen, CEO of West Herts Hospitals Charity, said: “We are immensely grateful to Robert for coming onboard as our first ever patron and for his support of West Herts Hospitals and our local community. By working together, we’re confident we can do even more to help West Herts NHS go further.”

Robert Voss CBE CStJ Hon.LLD was appointed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire in 2017—a position he will hold until 2028.

Robert Voss said:

“

I am delighted to be appointed a patron of West Herts Hospitals Charity. I am committed to supporting initiatives that improve healthcare outcomes and enhance the well-being of individuals within our community. I hope that I can be of some help to promote and expand the important work at West Herts Hospitals Charity.

Opposite:

Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss CBE CStJ Hon.LLD

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Watford FC Goalkeeper Nets First Ambassador Role

On 8th May 2024, Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann signed up as an Ambassador for West Herts Hospitals Charity.

The Austrian shot stopper has played a key role in supporting our charity, which raises funds to improve patient care and staff wellbeing beyond what the NHS can afford.

We fund initiatives to enhance patient care at West Herts Hospitals, such as providing the SAVI SCOUT® system for breast cancer surgery, purchasing a Bili light to treat newborn jaundice, and creating the Rose Room for bereaved families.

Daniel said: “I’m so thankful for the support I have received from Watford fans and the local community since I joined the club – which is why I jumped at the chance to play a role in helping our friends at West Herts Hospitals Charity.

“As an ambassador, I will help raise awareness of what the charity does and the wonderful difference it makes to thousands of local people, as well as support its fundraising efforts.”

“We know Daniel is a very popular player, and he will no doubt help rally fans and the wider community to raise more funds, to help more people, in more ways in the future. “And to get him on a free signing is even better!”

Daniel’s first engagement as ambassador was the Step Up for Health event at Vicarage Road Stadium on Saturday 1st June 2024. Around 150 runners, climbers, and walkers raised over £8,000 for West Herts Hospitals Charity and Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust by tackling the 20,000-plus seater stadium’s stands. Daniel cheered on participants, including 8-year-old Leo Lovett, who won the under-18s category, and Mima Moore, 23, who won the adults’ race and was greeted at the finish line by Bachmann himself.

Alison Rosen, Charity CEO, said: “We are hugely grateful to Daniel for becoming our first ambassador and for his support of West Herts Hospitals.

Bottom right:

Daniel with Charity CEO, Alison Rosen (left) and Natalie Halliwell-Jennings, Communications Officer

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Highlights of our year

With your help we are making a real difference

We are delighted to share the impact which the money you have helped us to raise has achieved. In 2024/25 we distributed grants ranging from large to small across the entire hospital Trust, funding items not covered by NHS core funding.

Regardless of size, our grants are making life changing differences to patient’s treatment, experience, and bringing comfort during challenging times, as well as enhancing staff development and wellbeing.

In the year a total of £417k was awarded in grants.

Developing and Supporting NHS Trust staff £39,216.95
Essentials Hub at Watford 1,097.60
Education and Learning 5,989.64
Star of Herts 29,398.68
Other smallgrants 2,731.03
Patient Experience £80,910.78
Volunteer Role (End of Life) 10,366.15
Gifts in Kind includingChristmas 57,689.18
SafeguardingTechnology 762.35
SensoryRoom 132.00
Neonatal Ward 617.07
Neonatal Refurbishment 3,850.35
Other Small Grants 7,493.68
Medical Equipment 194,904.66
Pledia Analyser for FIT Tests 55,193.66
SAVI SCOUT® Breast Cancer Equipment 139,711.00
Patient Physical Environment £46,764.90
Starfish SensoryRoom 15,311.25
MaternityBereavement Room 29,599.65
Other Small Grants 1,854.00
Macmillan Frailty and Cancer Project £ 55,500.00
Total grants awarded £417,297.29

Clockwise from top:

Lola and Emma McCabe in the new sensory room on Starfish Ward

FIT analyser – increasing the number of bowel cancer tests that can be carried out Interventional radiology scanner in the new suite at Watford General SAVI SCOUT® surgical guidance system

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Our highlights: Developing and supporting staff

Star of Herts 2024 - Winners

Every day, the dedicated teams at West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust go above and beyond to provide exceptional care across Hemel Hempstead, St Albans City, Watford General hospitals and our outpatient physiotherapy centre in Abbots Langley.

It’s vital that we acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of our staff, thanking them for their unwavering commitment. Our doctors, nurses, specialists and support staff face countless challenges, always stepping up to ensure that the growing number of patients receive the care they need.

Chief Executive Award - Excellence for Care Beverley Owoo-Grant

Trust Value Award - Compassion Gillian Winkworth

Outstanding Demonstration of Quality & Safety Award Hannah Bysouth

Trust Value Award - Inclusion Shamira Ghouse

The People’s Choice Award Dr Tom Galliford

Outstanding Contribution to Volunteering Award Barbara Funnell

The Chairman’s Award - Inspirational Team

St Albans Pre-Operative Assessment

Left:

St Albans Pre-Operative Assessment Team

Opposite:

That’s why, on 5 October 2024, we hosted our Stars of Herts Annual Awards Night - a special evening to celebrate and honour the incredible contributions of our staff.

Left column top to bottom Beverley Owoo-Grant Gillian Winkworth Shamira Ghouse Right column, top to bottom Hannah Bysouth Dr Tom Galliford Barbara Funnell

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Star of Herts 2024 - Winners

Trust Value Award– Empowered Winner: Sarah Guest

Outstanding Demonstration of Innovation & Development Award Dr Rishi Fofaria

Outstanding Contribution to Staff Wellbeing Julianne Miranda Chairman’s Award - Inspirational Colleague Lily Murphy

Trust Value Award - Professional

Urogynaecology team

Chief Executive Award - Research Excellence Children’s Emergency Department Outstanding Contribution to Teaching and Education Respiratory physiotherapy team

Award Ceremony

Thank you to everyone who attended this year’s award ceremony.

The Stars of Herts Awards are our chance to celebrate the ingenuity, innovation and outstanding performance of our teams and individuals who provide excellent care and support across all our services.

Above from the top:

Trust Value Award - Professional - Urogynaecology team Chief Executive Award - Research Excellence - Children’s Emergency Department

Outstanding Contribution to Teaching and Education - Respiratory physiotherapy team

Opposite:

Celebrating our Stars: The 2024 Stars of Herts Awards

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Rapid Relief Team BBQ

Thousands of staff at Watford General Hospital were treated to a late summer barbecue – a thank-you gesture for the care and dedication they provide to patients throughout the year. This was subsidised by the Charity.

Volunteers from the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) charity cooked up around 2,500 burgers for nurses, doctors, and support staff during Thursday lunchtime.

The Watford RRT was thrilled to support West Herts Hospitals Charity at Watford General Hospital during their ‘Thank You’ event on 5th Sept 2024. This event was a resounding success, attracting a large crowd of NHS staff who came together to celebrate each other’s hard work and commitment to keeping the community safe. Staff lined up around the block, carrying boxes of the 2,000 burger meals – including popular vegan options – to share with their teams.

“ We’re so pleased to be able to thank staff for everything they do and to reflect on the progress we’ve made together

Kelly McGovern

Chief Nurse

Workers enjoyed beef and vegetarian burgers, nachos, salads, and drinks as they took a well-deserved break.

The event, funded by RRT, celebrated the progress made across West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in improving patient care.

West Hertfordshire Hospital is an inpatient emergency care hospital for patients who need specialist emergency services. It also provides intensive and elective care for higher-risk patients, as well as many outpatient and diagnostic services.

This celebration also recognised the exceptional work recently done in the emergency department, including a dramatic improvement in Accident and Emergency waiting times over the past two years. The Trust has risen by almost 100 places in national league tables and is now among the top 10 best-performing Trusts in the country – meaning more patients are being treated faster and more effectively.

Above and opposite:

RRT preparing fresh food as a thank you to staff. Staff enjoying ‘thank you’ lunch and collecting burgers for colleagues

“Working in a hospital is hugely rewarding, but also challenging. Demand continues to grow across our services, and our teams meet it with passion, dedication, and real care. It’s wonderful to be able to recognise them with an event like this.

“I’d also like to thank the brilliant and generous Rapid Relief Team who made this possible. They are superstars.”

said Kelly McGovern, Chief Nurse.

This event was made possible by the collaborative efforts of NHS staff, who wanted to express their gratitude with a thank-you lunch for colleagues. It provided a welcome opportunity for everyone to take a break, connect, and reflect on their achievements.

Harry Read, Local Team Leader for RRT, said his 40-strong team of volunteers had enjoyed the day. “It’s always special to see the smiles we put on people’s faces. It was a pleasure to

come to Watford today and thank NHS staff for all the brilliant work they do.

“The biggest barbecue I’d organised before this was for around 500 people – so this was a bigger challenge! We had multiple barbecues running and a well-drilled production line. I’m glad it went so well.”

Established by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC) in 2013, RRT provides catering and practical support to charities, government bodies, and emergency services in times of need. Guided by Christian values of care and compassion, its volunteers serve communities with heart and have supported several NHS Trusts nationwide.

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Patient Experience

Improving the patient experience and supporting staff development and wellbeing

Helping young patients face MRI scans with confidence

for scans. It’s fun, fast and significantly reduces the need for sedation.

The project has been made possible by a generous grant from All Aboard Charity Shops, enabling the purchase of VR headsets, development of the game, and the launch of a trial at Watford General Hospital.

Dr Andrew Zhou and Dr Rohan Misra developed an immersive VR game, working with developer Neeti Kumar, to reduce the anxiety many children feel before undergoing an MRI. The experience allows children to explore a virtual scan environment, using customisable characters and age-appropriate challenges to help them understand what to expect.

Alison Rosen, CEO of West Herts Hospitals Charity, said:

“We’re delighted to support such an innovative project that directly improves the patient experience. Rohan and Andrew’s idea really stood out, and we’re excited to see the difference it makes.”

MRI scans require children to stay perfectly still — often a daunting task. Previously, this could mean sedation, repeat scans or added stress for families. Now, this engaging VR approach is transforming how play specialists prepare young patients

Below: Dr Andrew Zhou and Dr Rohan Misra with the VR headset

Supporting parents with a simple gesture Each year, over 4,000 babies are born at Watford General Hospital — around 10% of them needing neonatal care. For parents with a premature or unwell baby, every moment counts and self-care often falls by the wayside.

To help, the Special Care Baby Unit introduced a parent snack trolley, offering quick access to food and drinks for families who spend long hours by their baby’s side. The initiative, led by Matron Elvira Baker, provides a small but meaningful source of comfort.

Empowering patient independence with new mealtime equipment

Our dedicated staff work hard to enhance patient experience and independence. For some patients, enjoying their meals independently can be a challenge due to reduced hand grip and dexterity. Simple mealtime equipment can make a real difference, but observations from walkabouts and audits revealed gaps in our resources.

We have stepped in to fund a range of mealtime equipment tailored to our patients’ needs. This includes specialised chunky cutlery, plate guards and anti-slip mats designed to help ensure patients can manage their meals with independence. The cutlery is being rolled out across all adult wards, starting with Sarratt Ward.

Deputy Chief Nurse Melanie Chambers said: “This addition will make a big difference, encouraging independence and improving overall patient experience. Thank you to our hospital charity for their support in making this possible!”

Below: Registered Nurse Degree Apprentice Robert Bennett with a patient using the new cutlery.

“Parents need to be able to nourish themselves easily,” says Elvira. “This trolley ensures they have access to snacks and drinks, especially during stressful times when they’re not thinking about their own needs.”

The snack trolley runs on donations, and often needs restocking. Thanks to community support, it continues to offer a quiet act of care that makes a big difference during an anxious time.

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Christmas Smiles:

a season of giving

The 2024 Christmas Smiles Gift Appeal brought festive joy to every corner of our hospitals, thanks to the incredible generosity of our local community.

With your help, we delivered hundreds of hampers to patients and staff across West Herts Hospitals. These thoughtful gifts brought light and warmth to those spending the festive season in hospital, and reminded our hardworking staff just how much they’re valued.

“At this time of year, our focus is on ensuring every patient feels the magic of Christmas — even while in hospital,” said Alison Rosen, Charity CEO. “These gifts provide comfort, connection and show our deep appreciation for the incredible staff working over the holidays.”

From donated gifts and sponsored hampers to teams of volunteers wrapping and delivering presents, you made the 2024 appeal a true success. Thank you for helping us share smiles, comfort and joy with so many.

Above:

Above and Right:

Father Christmas and his Chief Elf from Watford Rotary Club making a flying visit to Starfish Children’s Ward Staff receiving chocolates from Chief Nurse - Kelly McGovern, Paula King - Deputy Director of Nursing Surgery, Anaesthetics & Cancer and Melanie Chambers – Deputy Chief Nurse

Top left to R going clockwise The Reach Free School Pupils School Christmas Fundraising Event, Robbie White and Georgia Fisher, Starfish Children’s Ward Staff, Christmas Smiles Wrapping Session with Peter Taylor – Elected Mayor of Watford and members of the community, Starfish Children’s Ward Staff receiving chocolates from Father Christmas and Watford Rotary Club

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As part of our 2024 Christmas Smiles campaign, West Herts Hospitals Charity was delighted to welcome Watford FC goalkeeper and charity ambassador Daniel Bachmann to Watford General Hospital, alongside first team players Mattie Pollock, Moussa Sissoko, Ryan Andrews and Watford FC Women’s midfielder Anna Filbey.

The players visited the Starfish Children’s Ward on Wednesday 18 December, surprising young patients and spreading festive cheer with thoughtful gifts and plenty of smiles. They also took time to meet NHS staff, recognising the dedication of teams working throughout the Christmas period.

children and families during what can be a very challenging time. Having Daniel as our ambassador is a privilege, and we are incredibly thankful for Watford FC’s continued support in helping us celebrate the strength of our patients and the dedication of our NHS teams.”

This special visit was part of our Christmas Smiles Gift Appeal, which aimed to lift the spirits of patients spending Christmas in hospital and thank NHS colleagues caring for them over the holidays.

Alison Rosen, CEO of West Herts Hospitals Charity, said: “We are so grateful to Daniel and the Watford FC players for taking the time to visit and bring joy to our young patients. Their kindness made a real difference, creating special moments for

“

The Christmas Smiles Gift Appeal is a fantastic way to bring festive cheer to patients who can’t be home for Christmas, and to show appreciation for our incredible NHS staff who work tirelessly — even during the holidays.

It was great to meet the young patients, hand out gifts and help spread some Christmas magic.

Members of Watford Football Club visit Starfish Ward

Daniel Bachmann

Charity Ambassador

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Patient Physical Environment New Sensory Room for Starfish Ward

A new sensory room for the Starfish children’s ward at Watford General is now a reality thanks to the incredible efforts of the Fullerians RFC community.

The sensory room was officially opened by the McCabe family and members of the Fullerians RFC on Monday 20 May 2024.

On 16 March 2022, members of Fullerians RFC pedalled an impressive 355km to Paris, finishing at the Stade De France two days later. Their journey raised over £20,000 for the sensory room appeal, inspired by young patient Lola McCabe.

Lola, now 6, whose life was turned upside down following a leukaemia diagnosis, inspired this amazing fundraising effort. Keeping the team company virtually was Dobbie, Lola’s toy house elf, who wore a GPS tracker enabling Lola to follow their progress.

Eight cyclists from the Fullerians community plus a saddle and support team of two completed the fundraising initiative for Lola. The team departed the

club on Wednesday 16 March at 6.30am for Newhaven, travelled by Ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe the next morning, and continued their pedal to Paris, arriving on Friday 18 March.

“The care Lola has received at Watford General has been amazing. It has been an honour to put all of our love, efforts and hard earned money towards a project close to our hearts and maybe even something that will help a future Fullerian, friend or family member in the future.”

— Lola’s dad, Richard McCabe

The sensory room is an important addition to Starfish ward, creating a therapeutic space for young patients to explore during some of the toughest times children and families can face. In addition to the sensory room, the cyclists also raised funds for a beautiful aquarium on the children’s ward, helping to create a sense of calm and distract young patients during their treatment.

“

This is an amazing achievement that will bring hours of pleasure to all the children on the Starfish ward during their stay in hospital. A great big thank you to all involved, seeing children play in the sensory room is so wonderful.

Kerry Beasley

Senior Sister and Starfish ward Manager,

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A place of solace

The new Rose Room at Watford General Hospital

“We meet families during the worst imaginable times,” said Samantha Behagg, Lead Bereavement Midwife. “This room offers a peaceful, supportive environment for parents to spend precious time with their baby and begin to process their grief. Thanks to generous donations, we’ve been able to create a more comforting space, including special bereavement books for families and siblings, which have been especially impactful in helping guide them through their loss.”

Thanks to the generosity of our community, a newly renovated maternity bereavement room, known as the Rose Room, has opened at Watford General Hospital following a public fundraising appeal.

Officially opened on 9 January 2024, supporters were invited to see the Rose Room for the first time, which now provides a dedicated, comfortable space for families to reflect, support each other and spend precious time with their baby.

West Herts Hospitals Charity led the appeal – in partnership with the hospital’s maternity bereavement service. Together, they raised over £40,000, including more than £10,000 from a JustGiving campaign launched by the Bereavement Midwives. Significant donations were also received from 4Louis, The B&Q Foundation, Barratt North Thames and other generous supporters.

The Rose Room now features:

In the UK, one in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage, and every day 17 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth. The death of a baby is devastating for parents, families, and the staff who support them. Watford General Hospital’s maternity bereavement service has been running for eight years, offering vital support during these most difficult times.

Alison Rosen, CEO of West Herts Hospitals Charity, added: “We are incredibly grateful to our community and supporters for their

generosity in helping to transform the Rose Room. This space will provide solace and comfort for grieving families, offering them a place to create lasting memories and begin their healing journey. On behalf of the hospital and the charity, thank you for your kindness and compassion.”

Continued fundraising will help keep the Rose Room a comforting, supportive space for families who experience the heartbreaking loss of a baby.

To make a donation , please visit the Maternity Bereavement team’s JustGiving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/ sam-behagg-1683022014934

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Kirsty’s reflection

“As a previous user of the Rose Room on the delivery ward during the stillbirth of our first child, Savannah, I was thrilled to hear about the renovation of the room. Though families using the room are going through the most difficult moments of their life, it is also the time they get to meet their beautiful child. The renovation of this room has created a calm and comforting environment with soft colours and lighting to bring a little peace in the moments it is needed the most.

Particularly the ability to pull out the bed, so families can benefit from some rest together gathering strength for what is to come, and soaking in the precious moments they will get with their little one after their birth. On the whole, a job very well done by the bereavement team - one which many families will continue to appreciate in the months and years to come.”

Kirsty Fearon mother to Savannah and Sienna

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A transformative gift for breast cancer care

In a major step forward for breast cancer treatment at West Herts Hospitals, Boot Out Breast Cancer has made an extraordinary donation of nearly £140,000, completing our £200,000 fundraising appeal and funding two state-of-the-art SAVI SCOUT® surgical guidance systems.

“When I heard about the appeal, I knew I had to support it,” said Debbie. “It’s vital that NHS patients have access to the best possible equipment – and we’re proud to help make that a reality for West Herts.”

This cutting-edge technology, in place at St Albans City Hospital, uses radar waves to precisely locate cancerous tissue, within just one millimetre – allowing for more accurate, less invasive breast cancer surgery.

The donation was made by Debbie Dowie, breast cancer survivor and founder of Boot Out Breast Cancer.

Right:

Lee Min Lai, Consultant Breast Surgeon at West Herts Hospitals and Debbie Dowie, Founder of Boot Out Breast Cancer.

“

The SAVI SCOUT® systems are a game-changer. They enhance precision, improve outcomes and reduce patient stress. We’re incredibly grateful to Debbie and everyone who helped bring this to West Herts.

Lee Min Lai

Consultant Breast Surgeon at West Herts Hospitals

The Community behind the breast cancer cause

The appeal, launched in September 2024, was embraced by the local community and supported by the Watford Observer and Herts Advertiser. Additional fundraising highlights included:

Above: Generous pupils, teachers and parents at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in South Oxhey raised an impressive £700 to support our breast cancer appeal.

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School

On 22 November 2024, the community at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in South Oxhey came together in a remarkable show of support for West Herts Hospitals Charity’s breast cancer appeal. Pupils, teachers and parents raised an impressive £700 to help fund state-of-the-art equipment for local breast cancer care.

Headteacher Mrs Linda Payne said: “We were truly thankful for the generous donations and unwavering support from our wonderful school community. Their contributions made a meaningful difference to a cause that has sadly touched many lives. Together, we helped bring hope and support to those in need.”

The appeal held special significance for the school. Office Manager and violin teacher Dawn Tannian, who was undergoing treatment at the time, shared: “We chose to support the appeal because it was so close to our hearts. The St Albans Breast Unit had treated several of our staff and parents, and I was a patient myself. The care we received was outstanding. This was our way of giving back.”

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Titty Trail Triumphs: £30,000 Raised for Breast Cancer Appeal

On Sunday 3 November 2024, staff from West Herts Hospitals, alongside their families, friends and local supporters, came together for the Titty Trail — a 12-mile fundraising walk from Watford General to St Albans City Hospital.

Chief Nurse Kelly McGovern joined the walk, along with Deputy Chief Nurse Melanie Chambers and her sister-in-law Claire Fryer.

“One of my staff members who had breast cancer asked me to join,” said Kelly. “I wanted to support her and raise money for the breast unit. As Chief Nurse, it was important for me to be part of this.”

With 79 dedicated participants, the event raised an incredible £30,000 for the Breast Cancer Appeal, bringing the community together for a common cause: improving outcomes for breast cancer patients across West Hertfordshire.

The atmosphere at the finish line in St Albans was electric. Local MP Daisy Cooper handed out medals alongside West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust non-executive director Heather Moulder.

“We’re lucky to have excellent breast cancer services here,” Daisy said. “But we must keep investing in technology like the SAVI SCOUT® to keep improving

outcomes. I’m so grateful to everyone who walked and raised

funds today.”

A Community effort

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make the Titty Trail such a success, including:

Left: The dedicated team from the Breast Clinic at St Albans City Hospital signed up to take part in the Titty Trail, to help raise

funds for our breast cancer appeal.

“

I’m so proud of everyone involved. Like many, I walked in memory of a loved one. I hope my mother would be proud to see my daughter and me walking together for this cause. The funds raised will help countless women in West Herts.

Alison Rosen

CEO, West Herts Hospitals Charity

Below: Staff from West Herts Hospitals, alongside their families, friends and supporters, came together for the Titty Trail

The funds contributed to the purchase of two SAVI SCOUT® surgical guidance systems—cutting-edge technology that uses radar to precisely locate and remove cancerous tissue. This investment aims to significantly enhance surgical precision and patient care.

Among the participants was 12-year-old Amy Woods from Bushey, who was the first to complete the trail, crossing the finish line in just 3 hours and 52 minutes.

The new SAVI SCOUT® systems are based at St Albans City Hospital, supporting patients from across West Herts, including Watford.

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Medical equipment

Interventional Radiology Scanner opening

Thanks to the generosity of kind donors, our Imagine This appeal reached its £695k target. This enabled a brand-new stateof-the-art scanner to be opened in the new Interventional Radiology Suite, which opened in July 2024 at Watford General.

This marks a significant advancement in patient care, ensuring faster treatment, lower risk of infection, earlier discharge and quicker recovery compared to traditional techniques.

“

“This advanced technology will enable minimally invasive pinhole surgery, utilising X-rays to guide surgical instruments into previously inaccessible areas without open surgery, facilitating novel treatments at West Herts. The project hasn’t just been an investment in equipment. Fundamentally it’s been an investment in the health and wellbeing of our community.”

|

Dr. Muhammad A. Zamir

Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Consultant

Above and opposite:

Supporters get a first look at the new Interventional Radiology scanner during the reveal event on 19 June 2024

The new IR Suite will consist of the treatment room, anaesthetic room and recovery areas with five beds, meaning

patients can be welcomed, treated and recuperate all in one space, ensuring privacy and dignity throughout.

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The Wellbeing Courtyard opens at Watford General

On 22 May 2025, the hospital charity opened the Wellbeing Courtyard — a vibrant green space located at the heart of the Women and Children’s Services (WACS) building at Watford General Hospital. This peaceful sanctuary offers patients and staff a calming retreat from the pressures of a busy hospital environment.

The Courtyard transforms a previously unused 150-square-metre area into an inviting and colourful outdoor space. Designed with the healing power of nature in mind, it provides patients — many of whom stay in hospital for days — with access to fresh air, natural daylight, and enough space to remain mobile. It also offers staff a much-needed space to reflect and recharge away from the constant demands of the wards.

The project raised £40,000 to fund the transformation and is made possible thanks to the generosity and dedication of many individuals and organisations. We extend our thanks to Firecracker Films, Wickes Community Programme, Watford Phoenix Choir, the family of Joseph W. Golding, NUGEN Electrical Contractors, ETA Projects Ltd., and Brian Hargreaves, as well as NHS staff and members of the local community who contributed to making this special Courtyard a reality.

The finished design includes:

Since opening, the Wellbeing Courtyard has been welcoming hundreds of patients and staff each week, offering a quiet, restorative space that supports mental wellbeing, encourages gentle movement and connects the hospital community with nature.

The Courtyard stands as a lasting testament to the power of community collaboration and the healing benefits of green spaces in healthcare settings.

Left: Volunteers with Charity CEO Alison at the celebratory opening event of the Wellbeing Courtyard on 22 May 2025.

Opposite: T he new Wellbeing Courtyard - staff and community gather at the unveiling of the new Wellbeing Courtyard on the Women and Children’s Services ward.

The brickwork around the garden was painted by volunteers from the Wickes community programme.

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How we did it No Mountain high enough for the Facilities Team

Members of the West Herts Hospitals Facilities Team took on an epic fundraising challenge for our hospital charity. On Saturday 8th June, the team embarked on a midnight trek up Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, to raise vital funds for West Herts Hospitals.

The fearless fundraisers pictured above on the summit of Snowdon, left to right are: Retail specialist Gayan Liyanage, Head of Facilities Jan Jonker, Facilities Administrator Vijay Gnanamani, Facilities Operations

Head of facilities Jan Jonker shared her initial thoughts on the trek: “I originally wondered why we were doing the climb at night, especially with only two of the team as experienced climbers and the rest of us as first timers. However, on the way down (when it was light), we looked up and realised it was probably the best thing as it would have been nerve wracking had we actually seen how close to the edge we had come, especially for Colin!”

Jan highlighted the camaraderie during

the challenge: “The whole event was very positive right from the drive from the meeting point at Watford hospital. Darryl drove the “party bus” and everyone was in good spirits. Darryl

Manager Darryl Harber, Waste Managers Glen Riley and Maddy Giles, Assurance Manager Colin Flower, Assurance Officers Erin Janaway and Karel Jonker.

Departing from Watford at 7pm on Saturday, the team embarked on their trek up the PYG track, beginning their ascent at 12:30am. Braving -8 degrees and 40 mph winds, they reached the summit just after 4am, before making their descent down Miners track.

is actually a good DJ, so if all else fails… The team waited for and supported each other throughout, and there was a lot of laughter. We were sharing snacks, although Glen had thoughtfully 3 bought us all a bag of Biltong which is very high in protein and energy, so we were fuelled up and raring to go.

“It was wonderful to see the sun come up and reveal the magnificent scenery around us as we approached the top of the mountain. We couldn’t see much from the summit due to the cold low cloud and high winds.”

Proceeds from their fundraising will go towards various projects, including new wheelchairs for St Albans City Hospital and the refurbishment of the children’s waiting area in the UTC at Hemel Hempstead Hospital.

West Herts Hospitals Charity CEO Alison

Rosen said: “Huge congratulations to the Facilities Team! Your dedication and teamwork are truly inspiring. We are incredibly proud of your efforts and deeply grateful for your support of our hospitals.”

So far, the Facilities Team has raised over £1,400.

If you would like to support them, please consider sponsoring them through their go fund me page at

gofundme.com/f/raise-hospital-charity.

Opposite:

West Herts Hospitals Facilities Team get ready to depart from Watford for Snowdonia

Opposite top:

West Herts Hospitals Facilities Team on their midnight trek to the summit of Mount Snowdon

Above:

West Herts Hospitals Facilities Team reach the summit of Snowdon

The team saw the sunrise over Mount Snowdon during their descent

Spectacular views from Mount Snowdon during the climb

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Report and Accounts 2025

Step Up for Health Event at Vicarage Road Stadium

On 1st June 2024, runners, climbers, and walkers raised over £8,000 after taking part in an epic stair-climbing challenge hosted at Watford FC’s Vicarage Road Stadium.

The event saw participants running and walking up and down the stands of the 20,000+ seater stadium to raise vital funds for West Herts Hospitals Charity and Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust.

Watford FC’s goalkeeper and charity ambassador, Daniel Bachmann, cheered on from the sidelines as around 150 participants tackled the challenge, which included a shorter route option for children.

The first to cross the finish line in the under-18s category was 8-year-old Leo Lovett from Dunstable. Leo’s mum, Tara, said: “We are extremely proud of Leo winning the Step Up challenge and raising money for a good cause that will benefit the local community.”

Mima Moore, 23, from Watford won the adults’ challenge. Mima said: “I didn’t expect to win as I only signed up on the day, but it was a fantastic feeling when I completed the challenge and crossed the finish line in first place. Plus, Dan Bachmann was there to greet me at the finish line, so that was an added bonus!”

Alison Rosen, Charity CEO, said: “I am delighted so many people came along to support both West Herts Hospitals Charity and Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust. The energy and enthusiasm from everyone, including the children, was incredible. It’s so great to see our local community come together.”

Above:

8-year-old Leo Lovett was the winner in the under-18s category. 23-year-old Mima Moore was the winner in the adults’ category.

“Huge thanks to our sponsors and to our ambassador Daniel Bachmann for opening the event and cheering on all our participants all morning. I personally joined the Step Up challenge with my daughter and grandson, and it was a lovely surprise when my daughter Mima won the adults’ race!”

The event was supported by AMYA UK — the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association.

Special prizes were awarded to the first ten participants to cross the finish line and the top ten fundraisers. Winners received Watford Forever, The Sunday Times Sports Book of the Year, detailing Elton John’s ownership of Watford Football Club and its rise to the top of the first division under manager Graham Taylor. Top fundraisers were also treated to a tour of the dressing room.

Above:

Step Up Challenge finishers proudly displaying their medals alongside Watford FC goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann.

The event was sponsored by Anytime Fitness clubs in Croxley Park and Bushey, and CMR Surgical, a supplier of surgical robots to the Trust, highlighting their commitment to promoting health and wellbeing in the community. The Anytime Fitness team hosted a warm-up session at the stadium before the challenge began.

Participants received goody bags with gym passes from Anytime Fitness, products from Lush in Watford, and other items. Local supermarkets, including Morrisons in Watford, Tesco stores in Rickmansworth and Maylands, and Tesco Extra in Watford, donated water and cereal bars for the participants.

If you would like to make a donation, please visit the link below and note ‘Step Up’ in the reason for the donation box: watfordfccsetrust.com/make-adonation.

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Our NHS Birthday Bake-Off

On Friday 5th July, our local community joined us for West Herts Hospitals Charity’s NHS Big Tea party, held to celebrate the NHS’s 76th birthday and raise vital funds for patients and staff across West Herts Hospitals.

We were delighted to host the event in the gardens at the Vicarage Road entrance to Watford General Hospital, where we gathered to honour our muchloved National Health Service. Thanks to funding from Watford Borough Council’s Community Fund, the celebration included a lively Bake-Off competition and a wonderful performance by singersongwriter Ky Lewis.

A panel of Bake Off judges — including our Patron, the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss CBE CStJ Hon. LLD, Chief Nurse Kelly McGovern, Deputy Chief Nurse Melanie Chambers, and Alex Murray from W3RT CVS — sampled a range of delicious bakes.

We were thrilled to see West Herts Hospitals’ Audiology Waiting List Coordinator, Masuma Punjani, take home both “best cake” and “best cookie” for her light, fluffy sponge cake with raspberries and her delicately spiced cardamon cookies. Judges praised her creations as “fruity and delicious” and “simply delicious.” We also congratulate Siân Darvell, Director of Collie Print, who won “best decorated cake.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Wenzels, Bushey Synagogue – Bushey Gives Back Committee, Bridgewater Home Care in Watford, and Peabody’s Coffee for their generous cake donations and invaluable support on the day.

To learn more about our Wellbeing Garden appeal and how you can support our work to improve patient care and staff wellbeing, please visit:

raisewestherts.org.uk/appeals/ wellbeing-garden

Our CEO, Alison Rosen, shared her gratitude:

“

We are incredibly thankful to everyone who came along and supported our Big Tea Party. This wonderful event was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our beloved NHS and raise vital funds to support our hospitals. The money raised will y— go directly towards our Wellbeing Garden appeal, which will transform an old courtyard into a beautiful new space for patients and staff at the Women’s and Children’s Services building at Watford General.

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Thank you to our supporters

Our work is only possible with your support

Thanks to your generosity, we are able to go above and beyond NHS funding and enhance the care and experience of every patient who comes through the doors of West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals.

With thanks to our corporate partners, community fundraisers, charitable trusts and statutory bodies:

Your support helps us fund cuttingedge equipment, improve hospital environments, and care for our dedicated staff. From providing life-saving surgical technology like the SAVI SCOUT® system for breast cancer patients, and purchasing a Bili light to treat jaundice in newborns, to creating a comforting Rose Room for bereaved families and funding a new sensory room to support children’s wellbeing – every donation makes a difference.

We would especially like to thank the following supporters, as well as those who have chosen to remain anonymous.

Above: Left to right -

Jon Andrews from the Decorum Motorcycle Riders with his wife Jaky Andrews & Saira Ramadan from Hempsons.

Our Volunteers

We are lucky to be supported by a team of incredible volunteers

Each year, our dedicated volunteers generously give countless hours of their time.

They are key ambassadors for the Charity, playing a vital role in everything we do. Alongside them, our wonderful corporate partners contribute their expertise, time, energy and enthusiasm to support our events and ad-hoc activities.

Our volunteers support the Charity in a wide range of ways, including:

Thanks to their selfless support, we are able to continue making life better for patients and enhancing the working environment for the hardworking staff at West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals.

While the incredible contributions of our volunteers are not reflected in the financial statements, in line with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), this is simply due to the absence of a reliable way to measure their impact in monetary terms — their efforts, however, are truly invaluable, and we thank them deeply.

Charity Champions Programme eV Ae

We continue to grow awareness of our work: we launched our new Charity ChampionsProgramme in February. We are thrilled that over 20 members of staff enthusiastically signed up to become Ambassadors to undertake this important role.

Our Charity Champions actively raise awareness, share our mission, and inspire involvement in fundraising and corporate sponsorships through their own networks, social media platforms as well as attending events.

Above: Volunteer Chris prepares to distribute Easter eggs to patients at Watford General.

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In Memory Donations

This year, we launched our In Memory Appeal, providing patients, families and members of our wider community with a meaningful and heartfelt way to honour the life of someone special.

By making a donation to West Herts Hospitals Charity in memory of a loved one, supporters can create a lasting legacy that directly benefits the care and wellbeing of future patients and staff at West Herts Hospitals.

We are proud to work in partnership with MuchLoved, the UK’s leading in-memory giving platform, to offer a free and easyto-use online tribute service. Families and friends can create a dedicated tribute page, where they can celebrate their loved one’s life by sharing cherished memories, photos, stories, music and videos. Visitors to the page can also leave messages and make donations in their honour, helping to grow a lasting tribute that supports the hospital community.

Through our in Memory Appeal, we aim to offer comfort, connection and a sense of purpose during a time of loss, providing a special and lasting way to remember and celebrate the lives of those who meant so much to us.

If you would like to donate money In Memory of a loved one, please visit our website at https:// whhc.org.uk/in-memory.

Whether through a funeral collection, setting up a tribute fund or making a personal donation, every contribution helps to fund vital services, equipment and support across our hospitals. These gifts not only pay tribute to those we have lost but also play a crucial role in enhancing patient care for generations to come.

If you have any enquiries, please don’t hesitate to contact Ilana at ilana.hartal@nhs.net.

Celebrate the life of a loved one by donating to West Herts Hospitals Charity in their memory

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Report and Accounts 2025

Remembering Norman Tyrwhitt

Remembering Norman Tyrwhitt - Chair of League of Friends Watford Hospital, Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Watford.

Norman Tyrwhitt was one of the greatest and most influential of all public servants that Watford has ever known. As well as being a Labour councillor for 28 years, Norman served two terms as Watford’s Mayor (1979–80 and 1995–96).

On 23rd July 2005, Norman, along with his wife Mavis, was accorded the highest honour that a borough council can bestow on a citizen who has truly excelled in their service to the community: he was invested with the prestigious “Freedom of the Borough”.

One of only 20 people to have been granted this privilege, he is commemorated alongside other local VIPs – Elton John, Graham Taylor and Luther Blissett. Watford is probably unique in having Freemen who actively undertake activities on behalf of the borough on a frequent basis and Norman and Mavis carried out many civic engagements as representatives of the council, the Mayor and the Chairman.

Celebrating the life of Norman Tyrwhitt

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Report and Accounts 2025

As a young man, Norman served as corporal at No2 Radio School RAF Yatesbury. He later became a chemistry teacher at Harrow County School for Boys and developed a passion for education. Norman served on many school governing bodies and was particularly fond of his roles as Chair of the Governors for his childhood schools: Garston Infant and Lea Farm Schools and the Grammar Schools. He also served on the Local Education Executive and the Education Advisory Committee.

Norman’s long-standing dedication to the local community was inspired by his father Clifford’s civic work and is perfectly

demonstrated by the number of offices he has held. He was Chair of Labour’s Leisure Standards Committee, Audit Committee and the Market Working Party and a Trustee of Watford Labour Church Charity as well as a Trustee of the Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses for 20 years.

Norman also held directorships in other organisations which enhance the cultural life of the town. Here, his work included saving Watford Palace Theatre from closure back in 1962 and then serving on its Endowment Trust for many years. He was also a director of Watford Musical Heritage, Vice President of Watford Festival of Music, Speech and Drama, Chair of Friends of Watford Museum and a Friend of Cassiobury.

Norman sadly passed away at home on 8th March 2025 at the age of 93 following a period in hospital suffering with pneumonia. He will be greatly missed by West Herts Hospitals Charity and all the team at Watford General.

Norman and Mavi Tyrwhitt celebrating Norman’s birthday

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Remembering Mike Carruthers

In 2019 Mike Carruthers was rushed into Watford’s Emergency Department after his blood pressure dropped and he began losing consciousness.

His story powerfully illustrates the importance of having the right team, the right equipment and the right expertise in place — and how the hospital’s new Interventional Radiology scanner could help save even more lives like his.

Mike shared his experience:

“It all happened one weekend a couple of years ago. On the Saturday, I’d been suffering from a stomach bug and went to bed feeling unwell. I got up to use the bathroom, and the next thing I knew, I woke up on the bedroom floor. I’d passed out.”

“My wife, who is a GP, checked my blood pressure — it was low — so she encouraged me to drink plenty of water. We both assumed I’d become dehydrated, but every time I moved, I’d get dizzy or faint. It was frightening.”

“She called 111, and eventually the call was prioritised. The ambulance arrived at around 11pm. The team was fantastic — they ran all the checks and blue-lighted me from St Albans to Watford.”

“When we arrived, my blood pressure had dropped even further. I was taken straight to the Resuscitation ward in A&E. There, I had blood tests, ECGs, X-rays and ultrasounds. At that point, there was no clear diagnosis. But early the next morning, I had a CT scan, which revealed a small abdominal aneurysm and significant internal bleeding.”

“I met with several doctors, including Mr Bhatti, the Surgical Consultant, who discussed the possibility of surgery — but the location of the aneurysm made that

option extremely risky. They also considered Interventional Radiology, but believed I’d need to be transferred to the Royal Free as their Interventional Radiologist might not be available.”

“A few hours later, Dr Zamir came to see me. He introduced himself and said he was available and confident he could help. When I asked how soon he could start, he said, ‘I’ll try to get you in within the next 10 minutes.’ That was a bit of a shock!”

“In Radiology, the surgical team and anaesthetists were all present in case the procedure failed or surgery was needed. It was a full room, and everyone was fantastic.”

“They inserted a wire into the artery in my leg and guided it toward the bleeding aneurysm using imaging. The plan was to use microcoils to block it, but the angle made that difficult. Dr Zamir suggested using a special medical glue — but they didn’t have any in stock. The team quickly contacted the supplier, who delivered it directly to the hospital, allowing the procedure to continue.”

“The glue worked. They sealed the ruptured artery through a tiny incision in my leg, avoiding the need for major surgery. It was uncomfortable, but I was awake throughout, and the care I received was exceptional.”

“Looking back, it’s clear how serious it was. At the time, it didn’t feel life-threatening — but in hindsight, it absolutely was. I am so grateful to everyone involved. I spent three days in hospital and about a month recuperating, but I made a full recovery. The skill and determination of the staff saved my life.”

Consultant Dr Muhammad Zamir

added: “Michael suffered from a bleeding aneurysm of the pancreaticoduodenal artery, which supplies blood to the pancreas. Unfortunately, there were delays due to the limitations of our current Interventional Radiology facilities and anaesthesia capabilities. The new Interventional Radiology room will enable us to treat these complex cases more efficiently — especially out-ofhours — without needing to transfer patients elsewhere. The new scanner also provides high-resolution imaging and advanced software for faster diagnosis and treatment.”

Gemma Carruthers, Mike’s wife,

reflected: “I was very fortunate to have been married to Mike for 28 years. We were both born in St Albans and returned to the area after marrying. West Herts Hospitals have played an important role in our lives — through my work as a local GP, and most importantly, through the lifesaving treatment Mike received in 2019.”

Above: Mike Carruthers

“Mike loved walking, travelling, cooking, and entertaining friends and family — passions he continued to enjoy for many years after his illness. He passed away suddenly in March 2025. It’s been a comfort to me and our three children that

we had six more precious years with him.”

“

Mike was proud to support the campaign for a new Interventional Radiology facility at Watford General Hospital. After his death, it felt only right that we continue to support the West Herts Hospitals Charity — so that others might benefit, just as he did.

Gemma Carruthers

Mike’s wife

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Leave a Legacy

Leaving a gift in your Will to West Herts Hospitals Charity will make a lasting difference by improving patient care across West Hertfordshire.

Your support will help ensure that loved ones receive the best treatment from skilled staff, in modern facilities equipped with the latest technology.

Our promise to you

We know that your family and friends come first. We promise to treat you and your loved ones with sensitivity, respect and compassion.

We value all the gifts that are left to us. Nothing is too big or small – your gift will help us make a world of difference.

We will use your gift efficiently and effectively, so that it has the greatest impact.

You have the right to change your mind about leaving a gift in your Will at any time and we will respect your decision.

We will always respect your privacy – you can decide when and how often we contact you.

Please contact us if you would like to speak to someone regarding leaving a gift in your Will to West Herts Hospitals Charity by phone 01923 436 182, or email westherts.hospitalscharity@nhs.net.

For the full Gifts in Wills pack, please contact Alison, our Charity CEO, at alison.rosen2@nhs.net. She will be happy to assist you.

We have also partnered with Gifts in Wills so that you can complete your Will for free: farewill.com/whhc-gifts-in-wills

Building and maintaining such special healing spaces for our patients and families is largely thanks to gifts in Wills. Will you consider leaving a forever thank you to the NHS, with a gift in your Will to West Herts Hospitals Charity?

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Lottery About our Lotto

We’re delighted to report on the significant growth of our lottery throughout the 2024/25 financial year,

Growth Overview

This outstanding growth highlights the increasing engagement and support from our community, allowing us to generate more funds for vital charity work.

Winners throughout the year

Congratulations to all our lucky winners during the 2024/25 financial year! We distributed prizes as follow:

Our lottery grants have been allocated as follows:

Our lottery grants have been
allocated as follows:		 Our lottery grants have been
allocated as follows:
Staff essentials hub £ 1,247
Staff fitness activities £1624
End of life volunteering £10,366
End of life Rose project £4,283
Wheelchair subsidy £100
Mealtime equipment for
frailpatients		 £1,672
Special needs toys £165
Sensory communication toys £145
Festive wards £825
Dementia support £264
Health inequalities anchor project £10,826
Total £31517

This outstanding growth highlights the increasing engagement and support from our community, allowing us to generate more funds for vital charity work. Thank you to all those who buy tickets.

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Report and Accounts 2025

Looking ahead Art in Hospitals

Art in hospitals offers numerous benefits for patients, staff and the overall healthcare environment

To learn more about how Paintings in Hospitals is transforming health and wellbeing through art, please visit paintingsinhospitals.org.uk.

It can reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, improve communication, and even shorten hospital stays. Art also fosters a sense of well-being and helps create a more pleasant, supportive atmosphere for both patients and caregivers.

The artworks were installed at the end of June 2025, and will be followed by special opening exhibition events at both hospitals.

West Herts Hospitals Charity has partnered with Paintings in Hospitals to create new art exhibitions at Watford General Hospital and St Albans City Hospital. The artworks were selected on loan following consultations with both patients and staff. These paintings are part of the Paintings in Hospitals Collection, which includes nearly 3,000 pieces by world-class artists.

This initiative is part of a wider art strategy that we aim to develop further A place of solace over the coming year.

The new Rose Room at To discuss art or potential donations, please contact Charity CEO Alison Rosen at alison.rosen2@nhs.net. Watford General Hospital

This is the UK’s largest national art collection dedicated solely to health and wellbeing, and it is used by hospitals and care organisations across England and Wales.

Opposite page:

Far left: ‘ A Night of Love’, Patrick Hughes, 1985, Screenprint.

Top right: ‘Deer in Woodland’, Peter Reading, 1985, Watercolour. Bottom right: ‘Bright Strata’ John McClenaghan, 2000, Acrylic on Paper.

This page:

Top: ‘Harbour with Still Life (St Ives)’, Rachel Nicholson,1999, Lithograph

Centre: ‘Venice by Moonlight’, Deirdre Borlase, 2003, Paper Collage and Gouache on Board.

Bottom: ‘Landscape in Tuscany, Mark Haynes, 2003, Acrylic on Paper.

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Report and Accounts 2025

Children’s Outpatients Appeal:

Sensory play areas

Waiting for a hospital appointment is never fun — and it’s especially difficult if you’re a child stuck in a space designed for adults.

West Herts Hospitals Charity is aiming to change this. We have launched an appeal to raise £36,000 to create child-friendly sensory play areas in the Outpatients departments at Watford General, St Albans City and Hemel Hempstead hospitals. Currently, there are no dedicated waiting areas for children in Outpatients, and young patients are often left bored and anxious while parents struggle to keep them entertained.

The Children’s Outpatients Appeal hopes to raise £36,000 to transform the play area at each hospital into a welcoming, interactive space for young patients and their families.

“

Creating sensory play areas is about more than entertainment; it’s about reducing anxiety, encouraging learning through play, and showing our youngest patients and their families that we truly care.

Alison Rosen

The new sensory-focused play areas will provide:

Sensory-focused additions, such as bubble walls and light-up displays, will also help create a calming environment for children.

To learn more about the Children’s Outpatients Appeal or to make a donation, please visit our website: whhc.org.uk/ appeals/childrens-outpatients-appeal.

CEO, West Herts Hospitals Charity

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Help us create a Wellbeing Room for our NHS heroes

Our NHS staff work tirelessly to care for our community. Now, it’s time to care for them.

Our proposed design for the new wellbeing room includes:

West Herts Hospitals Charity has launched an appeal to create a dedicated wellbeing room at St Albans City Hospital — a space where hardworking NHS staff can recharge, relax, and feel appreciated for their incredible efforts.

Why a Wellbeing Room?

Healthcare professionals often work long hours under immense pressure. Currently, staff rooms on site are too small, outdated, and lack essential amenities. A dedicated space for relaxation and mental wellness can significantly improve morale, resilience, and overall wellbeing.

This page:

Staff in the current space at St Albans City Hospital.

That’s why we’re planning to transform an old gym area in the Moynihan Wing into a modern, functional wellbeing room. This is our way of showing appreciation for staff’s unwavering commitment to our community.

“

A dedicated wellbeing space is about more than just providing a place to sit – it’s about fostering a supportive environment for our hardworking NHS staff. With a space to relax and recharge, we’ll see reduced stress levels and improved team collaboration. Staff wellbeing must remain a high priority to support recruitment and retention at a challenging time.

Supporting Staff Wellbeing

Prioritising staff wellbeing is essential for recruitment and retention, especially during challenging times. This investment will help attract and retain skilled professionals, demonstrating our commitment to their welfare and making West Herts Hospitals an employer of choice.

Nuala Littlechild, Site Director at St Albans City Hospital, and colleague Hannah Reynolds, Lead Radiographer, have already kickstarted fundraising with the “31 for 31” challenge, completing 31 minutes of exercise each day in January. Their activities included running, cycling, and HIIT classes. Nuala continued her efforts by abseiling from the roof of One YMCA in Watford, joined by colleagues Sarahjane Turner, Matron for Surgery, Anaesthetics and Cancer, Senior Relationship Manager Colin Gray, James Ingall from GSCI Consulting, and Mima Moore.

Help us reach our £40,000 goal

Thanks to a generous match funder, every £1 you donate will be doubled up to £20,000. Additional funds raised will support further staff wellbeing initiatives across West Herts Hospitals, benefitting staff at Watford General, Hemel Hempstead, and St Albans City Hospitals. Every donation, large or small, brings us closer to our goal and helps us invest in the wellbeing of our dedicated NHS staff.

To donate, please visit:

whhc.org.uk/appeals/staff-wellbeing-appeal

“

Our NHS staff give their all to care for patients, and it’s vital we look after their wellbeing too. This new space will be a small but meaningful way to thank them for their dedication and ensure they have the resources they need to thrive. We’re so grateful for the community’s support in helping us make this vision a reality.

Alison Rosen

CEO, West Herts Hospitals Charity

Nuala Littlechild

Site Director, St Albans City Hospital

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Ways you can help Support West Herts Hospitals Charity and make a difference

There are countless ways you can help improve patient care across our hospitals.

Whether you donate, fundraise or get involved in one of our many initiatives, your support will make an incredible impact.

Here are some of the ways you can contribute to West Herts Hospitals Charity:

Make a donation

Become a Charity Champion

Join our community of supporters who commit to regular donations, giving us the flexibility to fund vital projects year-round.

Philanthropy

Explore opportunities for making significant one-time donations that can help transform patient care. Contact our Senior Fundraising Officer Emily at 07815 459037 or email westherts.hospitalscharity@nhs.net.

Weekly Lotto

Get involved in our exciting lottery! By entering, you’ll not only support patients and staff, but you’ll also have the chance to win fantastic prizes. Learn more at whhc.org.uk/west-herts-hospitals-lottery.

Fundraising

Whether you participate in one of our organised events or create your own fundraiser, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Explore current events at whhc.org.uk/events and get fundraising tips at whhc.org.uk/fundraise.

In Memory

Commemorate someone special by creating a tribute in their memory on the MuchLoved website, choosing West Herts Hospitals Charity as your chosen charity. Visit muchloved.com.

Leave a gift in your Will

A gift in your Will can leave a lasting legacy that transforms patient care for generations to come. Find out how at whhc.org.uk/get-involved/gifts-in-wills.

Corporate support

We offer a variety of corporate partnerships, from Charity of the Year initiatives to event sponsorships and team-building opportunities.

Contact us to explore how we can work together by emailing westherts.hospitalscharity@nhs.net or calling 01923 436182.

Support our appeals

Help fund key hospital developments and strategic projects by supporting our ongoing appeals. Visit whhc.org.uk/appeals to learn more.

Visit our website

To see the powerful impact of your donations on patient care, explore more at whhc.org.uk/.

Our dedicated fundraising team would love to discuss how you can get involved and support our cause. Call our Senior Fundraising Officer Emily at 07815 459037, email westherts.hospitalscharity@nhs.net or visit our office.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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Report and Accounts 2025
Bal Ki Mf| iF celTene . ‘
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Structure, governance and mana ement g

Legal structure

West Herts Hospitals Charity was established by a declaration of trust dated 12 December 1995 and its aim is to provide monies wholly or mainly for the services of the hospital trust. West Herts Hospitals Charity replaces the brand name Raise and is the working name for West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Charity, charity 1052210. There are a number of subsidiary funds relating to the umbrella charity.

Corporate trustee representatives and their responsibilities

The charity has a single corporate trustee, West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. The NHS Trust Board, representing the corporate trustee, delegates responsibility to a Charity Committee.

This committee meets at least four times a year and the Chair of the Committee reports to the NHS Trust Board, as corporate trustee, following each meeting. The Charity Committee acts for the corporate trustee, and its purpose is to:

Right: Alison Rosen, Jonathan Rennison and Catherine Dugmore

CHARITY COMMITTEE

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||| |---|---| |Jonathan Rennison|Coopted Independent| |Member| |Heather Moulder|Corporate Trustee| |Member| |Alison Rosen|Charity Chief Executive| |Officer| |Kelly McGovern|Corporate Trustee| |Member| |Toby Hyde|Trust Board Member| |Charlotte McAlpine|Coopted Staff Member| |David Goodier|Coopted Staff Member| |Martine Mason|Coopted Staff Member| |Jason Palman|Coopted Staff Member| |Theresa Maunganidze|Coopted Staff Member| |Sam Martin|Coopted Independent| |Member| |Ginny Edwards|Coopted Independent| |Member| |Ubaid Ul-Rehman|Coopted Independent| |Member| |Ilana Rinkoff|Coopted Independent| |Member|

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CORPORATE TRUSTEE

Catherine Dugmore Chair of Trust Matthew Coats Chief Executive Officer Catherine Pelley Non-Executive Director Heather Moulder Non-Executive Director Harvey Griffiths Non-Executive Director Natalie Edwards Non-Executive Director Edwin Josephs Non-Executive Director and Senior Independent Director Professor Ann Griffin Non-Executive Director Kelly McGovern Chief Nurse and Director of Infection Prevention and Control Rodney Pindai Acting Chief Financial Officer Dr Mike van der Watt Chief Medical Officer Rachel Thorman Chief Operating Officer

A full list of appointments and resignations is available on request.

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Reference and administrative regulation

Registered charity number 1052210

Registered charity name

West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Charity

Operating names

Raise Raise West Herts West Herts Hospitals Charity

Bank

Lloyds TSB 67 High Street Watford Herts WD17 2DU

Registered charity address

Watford General Hospital 60 Vicarage Road Watford Hertfordshire WD18 0HB

Independent Examiner

Hillier Hopkins LLP Chartered Accountant Radius House 51 Clarendon Road Watford Hertfordshire WD17 1HP

Senior charity staff

Alison Rosen CEO - joined July 2023

Website and email

whhc.org.uk westherts.hospitalscharity@nhs.net

Social media

X: @whhospcharity Instagram: @westhertshospitalcharity Facebook: @West Herts Hospitals Charity LinkedIn: @West Herts Hospitals Charity

Privacy and fundraising

We work hard to meet our responsibilities under the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). Our privacy notice is available on our website and explains what supporters and others can expect from us and how we collect and manage information about them. Any adverse matters relating to GPDR compliance are reported to the Charity Committee and to our regulators as required. There were no such matters to report this year.

We are registered with the Fundraising Regulator to demonstrate our commitment to transparency. Our fundraising promise is published on our website and explains what supporters can expect from us, and what to do if they have any concerns.

Investment Managers

Rathbones Greenback Investments 8 Finsbury Circus London EC2M 7AZ

Opposite:

The Charity Team - Left to right: Ninghzi Zhang, Natalie Halliwell Jennings, Alison Rosen, Ilana Hartell, Oludamilola Oyetosho, Emily Theobald, Amanda White.

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Financial Review

Creditors

Overview

The amount owed by the charity at 31 March 2025 was £707k which includes monies for completed projects and accruals for other projects; including the interventional radiology scanner.

As at 31 March 2025, our total net assets stood at £123k, reflecting a £342k decrease in reserves (a 74% decline) compared to 31 March 2024. Income rose from £580k to £966k, driven primarily by increases in donations, lottery income, and gifts in kind. Lottery income grew significantly, from £120k to £308k (an increase of 157%).

Reserves policy

The reserves currently stand at £124k (previous year £465k). At 31 March 2025 the valuation of the investment portfolio was £631k, with the balance of assets (negative £508k) being net current liabilities due to the amount due for the interventional radiology scanner. Note 10 of the accounts refers to the purposes of the material funds. Of the total fund balance at 31 March 2025 of £124k, there are 47 restricted funds with a value of £245k, the unrestricted funds is currently in a negative of £121k due to significant investment in lottery.

A major contribution to income was the donation of breast cancer equipment valued at £140k from Boot Out, recognised as a gift in kind.

Total expenditure has increased from £816k to £1,294k, representing a 59% rise. This growth is mainly attributed to a 68% increase in lottery costs, rising from £230k to £386k, and a significant 182% increase in grant spending, which grew from £148k to £417k.

Investments

In the medium term, the Charity Committee believes it is prudent to hold a target level of free reserves to enable the Charity to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves and to have sufficient working capital to allow the fundraising, support and governance operations of the Charity to continue for six months and meet any unrestricted grant giving commitments. This will allow the Charity to respond in a considered way to an adverse change in circumstances, giving sufficient time to enable emerging circumstances to be assessed and appropriate plans developed and implemented, without requiring a crisis response.

The valuation of the charity’s investment portfolio was £631k as at 31 March 2025, compared to £653k in the previous year, a 3% decrease. This decline reflects the ongoing volatility and downward pressure in global stock markets. The trustees continued to monitor the portfolio based on Rathbones’ advice as international events affect stock markets around the world. In March 2025 Rathbones recommended that the investment strategy remain unchanged and planned to make strategic purchases of preferred equities in a more considered way.

Debtors

Having carefully considered the best interests of the Charity and its beneficiaries, the Corporate Trustee believes it appropriate to work towards holding free reserves sufficient to fund six months of operating expenditure, which based on the 2025/26 budget equates to approximately £600,000 , alongside a target cash holding equivalent to 90 days of expenditure . This level is considered

As at 31 March 2025 total debtors were £76k (previous year £85k). This mainly comprised monies due from restricted grants.

Cash

As at 31 March 2025 the total cash balance was £123k (previous year £547k).

appropriate to ensure financial resilience, manage fluctuations in income, and enable the Charity to continue supporting West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in the event of unforeseen financial pressures.

At the year end, the Charity held negative free reserves of £121,000. This position reflects a planned position, based on a multiyear financial analysis and reflects the current mix of income sources, and the strategic investment made in lottery player recruitment, which is expected to generate strong and sustainable unrestricted income in future years. The Corporate Trustee has reviewed this position and is satisfied that the Charity has sufficient liquidity to meet all current obligations.

A structured financial recovery plan is in place to eliminate the negative free reserves and restore a positive reserves position by no later than the end of 2027/28 with an improved position in 2026/27. Following this recovery phase, the Charity will continue to build towards the six-month reserves target of £600,000 which brings us in line with the current charity policy.

Any free reserves held above the target level, and not required in the short term, will be made available for grants that directly benefit patients and service users of WHTH.

If, in the future, free reserves fall below the target level, the Corporate Trustee will assess whether this arises from short-term circumstances or longer-term trends, and will review grant commitments, expenditure plans, and fundraising activity accordingly.

Investment policy

Our investment objectives are to maximise growth over the long term whilst protecting the real value of the funds and maintaining a reasonable level of income. The appointed investment managers have, at the discretion of the Corporate Trustee, unrestricted powers in accordance with the Charities Act 2011, with the exception that there will be no investment in companies that have a significant investment in tobacco or alcohol.

Rathbones Investment Managers Ltd have been the charity’s investment manager for the whole of the financial year ending 31 March 2025.

They report quarterly to the Charity Committee regarding performance of the investment portfolio and outlook for the coming year. The report explains all investment movements i.e. purchases, sales and market movements, and all financial transactions are supported by contract notes. Rathbones charge a quarterly management fee which is 0.75% of the portfolio valuation and is deducted direct from the portfolio cash holding.

Risk management

The Charity Committee, on behalf of the Corporate Trustee, ensures that the charity meets its obligations for risk management as set out in the terms of reference. It has established a framework for risk identification and has examined the strategic and operational risks that the charity faces. The Charity Committee regularly reviews these risks and takes action to mitigate and monitor them. The investment strategy is constantly reviewed by the Charity Committee in line with the level of risk appetite agreed by the Corporate Trustee.

Incoming resources

Total incoming resources for the year ending 31 March 2025 was £966k (previous year £580k) which included voluntary income of £931k and investment income of £36k. Voluntary income includes donations from other charitable organisations including trusts and grantgiving bodies, churches and schools, private companies, trust employees, community events and other individual donations from patients, their relatives and their friends. Investment income includes income from the investment portfolio managed by Rathbones Investment Management Ltd.

Resources expended

Total resources expended were £1,294k (previous year £816k). This was split between charitable activities (£842k) and activities for generating funds (£452k). Charitable activities include expenditure incurred by the charity in undertaking activities that further its charitable aims of improving patient and staff experience and wellbeing as seen in note 3.

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Independent examiner’s report

Independent examiner’s report to the Corporate Trustee of West Herts Hospitals Charity (‘the Charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2025

Opinion

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

I report to the Corporate Trustee on my examination of the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the Corporate Trustee of the Charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’).

This report is made solely to the Charity’s Corporate Trustee, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Charity’s Corporate Trustee those matters I am required to state to them in an independent examiner’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charity and the Charity’s Corporate Trustee as a body, for my work or for this report.

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

Signed:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity as required by section 130 of the 2011 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

Alexander Bottom ACA Hillier Hopkins LLP Chartered Accountants Radius House 51 Clarendon Road Watford Hertfordshire WD17 1HP

  1. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.

Day Month 2025

Financial statements

For the year 01 April 2024 to 31 March 2025 Statement of the Corporate Trustee’s responsibilities

The Corporate Trustee confirms that, as far as it is aware, there is no relevant information of which the Charity’s independent examiners are unaware and that it has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that this is the case.

The Corporate Trustee is responsible for:

The Corporate Trustee confirms that it has met the responsibilities set out above and complied with the requirements for preparing the accounts. These financial statements have been compiled from and are in accordance with the financial records maintained by the Corporate Trustee.

The Corporate Trustee is required under the Charities Act 2016 to prepare accounts for each financial year.

For and on behalf of the West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust

In preparing those accounts, the Corporate Trustee is required to:

Signed:

Catherine Dugmore

Chair of West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust on behalf of the Corporate Trustee 11th September 2025

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Statement of Financial Activities

Income and expenditure for the year 01 April 2024 to 31 March 2025

Income and
endowments from:-
Donations,
Events and Legacies
2.1		 173
450
623		 168
240
408
Lottery
2.1		 308
0
308		 120
0
120
Investment Income
2.2		 36
0
36		 52
0
52
Total Income
and endowments		 517
450
967		 340
240
580
Expenditure on:-
Raising Funds
3		 (452)
0
(452)		 (303)
(5)
(308)
Charitable Activities
3		 (445)
(397)
(842)		 (299)
(209)
(508)
Total Expenditure (897)
(397)
(1,294)		 (602)
(214)
(816)
Gains/(losses) on
Investment assets
4		 (14)
0
(14)		 14
0
14
Net Income/
(Expenditure)		 (394)
53
(341)		 (248)
26
(222)
Gross transfer between
funds		 33
(33)
0		 228
(228)
0
Net movement
in funds
9a		 (361)
20
(341)		 (20)
(202)
(222)
Reconciliation
of Funds:-
Fund balances brought
forward
10
240
225
465		 260
427
687
Fund balances carried
forward
10		 (121)
245
124		 240
225
465

Balance Sheet

Statement of financial position at 31 March 2025

Fixed Assets
Investments
5		 379
252
631		 337
316
653
Total Fixed Assets 379
252
631		 337
316
653
Current Assets
Debtors
6		 38
39
77		 85
0
85
Cash at bank
7		 101
22
123		 528
19
547
Total Current Assets 139
61
200		 613
19
632
Creditors: Amounts
falling due within
oneyear
8		 (639)
(68)
(707)		 (710)
(110)
(820)
Net Current Assets/
(Liabilities)		 (500)
(7)
(507)		 (97)
(91)
(188)
Total Net Assets (121)
245
124		 240
225
465
Funds of the Charity
Funds:
Restricted
10.1		 0
245
245		 0
225
225
Unrestricted
10.2		 (121)
0
(121)		 240
0
240
Total Funds (121)
245
124		 240
225
465

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Corporate Trustee and signed on their behalf by:

Signed

Catherine Dugmore

Chair of West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust on behalf of the Corporate Trustee 11th September 2025

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Statement of Cash Flow

Cash flow for the year 01 April 2024 to 31 March 2025

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Total Funds Total Funds
Note 24/25 24/25 23/24 23/24
£ £ £ £
£000 £000 £000 £000
Cash flow from operating activities
Operating deficit before income from bank and 9a (363) (288)
investments
(Increase) in Debtors 6 8 (60)
Increase in Creditors 8 (113) 34
Net Cash Generated from operating activities (468) (314)
Cashflow from investing activities
(Purchase) and sale of investments 9b 8 6
Investment income received 2.2 36 38
Net Cash Generated from investing activities 44 44
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the (424) (256)
reporting period
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of 547 803
the reporting period
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the 7 123 547
reporting period
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Notes to the Accounts

1. Accounting Concepts and Policies

1.1 Basis of preparation

1.3 Financial instruments

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Charities SORP (FRS102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities:Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) and the Companies Act 2006.

The Charity has opted to account for financial instruments in line with IAS 39. See notes 8(a) and 8(b) for further details.

Financial assets

Financial assets are recognised when the Charity becomes party to the financial instrument contract or in this case when the income is probable. Financial assets are de-recognised when the contractual rights have expired or the asset has been transferred. Financial assets are initially recognised at fair value.

West Hertforshire Hospitals NHS Trust Charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost of transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are recognised on the statement of financial position when the Charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the financial instrument. Financial liabilities are de-recognised when the liability has been paid or expired.

1.2 Going concern

Corporate Trustee is not aware of any going concern issues which may cast significant doubt about West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust’s ability to continue operating. Corporate Trustee has received assurances from the NHS Board that the services currently provided by the Trust will continue to be provided for the foreseeable future.

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1.4a Income and endowments

All incoming resources are included in full in the Statement of Comprehensive income as soon as the following three factors can be met:

1.4b Boundary of recognition of income

Income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities when the charity is entitled to the funds, the amount can be measured reliably, and it is probable that the income will be received. Only income that meets these criteria is included within these accounts.

1.5 Expenditure

The funds held on trust accounts are prepared in accordance with the accruals concept. All expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party. In the year 2024/25 all the expenditure approved by the Corporate Trustees has been accrued.

1.5a Raising funds

The cost of generating funds is the cost associated with generating income for the funds held on trust. This will include the costs associated with the investment manager’s fee, the salary of the Charity CEO and other fundraising costs.

1.5b Charitable activities

The cost of charitable activities comprise all costs incurred in the pursuit of the charitable objectives and include governance costs which are accounted for on an accruals basis. They are apportioned over all of the funds based on the average fund balance.

1.5c Allocating costs by activity

All administration costs being the other staff costs and independent examiner will be apportioned to Raising Funds and Charitable Activities based on time spent on each activity.

1.6 Structure of funds

Where there is a legal restriction on the purpose to which a fund may be put, the fund is classified in the accounts as a restricted fund. Funds where the capital is held to generate income for charitable purposes and cannot itself be spent are accounted for as endowment funds. Other funds which are not legally restricted and for which the Corporate Trustee has chosen to earmark for set purposes are classified as designated funds. The restricted funds are shown in note 10.1 with the major unrestricted funds in note 10.2.

1.7 Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset Investments are shown at market value. Quoted stocks and shares are included in the statement of financial position at midmarket price, ex-dividend. Other fixed asset investments are included at the Corporate Trustee’s best estimate of market price.

1.8 Debtors

Debtors are amounts owed to the Charity. They are measured on their recoverable amount.

1.9 Cash

Cash at bank and in hand is held to meet the day-to-day running costs of the charity as they fall due.

1.10 Creditors

Creditors are amounts owed by the charity. They are measured at the amount that the charity expects to have to pay to settle the debt, and recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payment to a third party.

1.11 Realised gains and losses

1.13 Irrecoverable VAT

All gains and losses are taken to the SOFA as they arise. Realised gains and losses on investments are calculated as the difference between sales proceeds and opening market value (or date of purchase if later). Unrealised gains & losses are calculated as the difference between market value at the year end and opening market value (or date of purchase if later).

Irrecoverable VAT is charged against the category of resources expended for which it is incurred.

1.14 Related party transactions

No one who is part of the corporate trustee received any honoraria or emoluments in the year. Within this is a figure that relates to grant funding for capital equipment not yet paid to the NHS Trust . The figures are noted below.

1.12 Pooling scheme

An official pooling scheme is operated for investments relating to the funds of the West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust Common Investment Fund. This scheme was registered with the Charity Commission on 2nd March 2001.

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Name of Related Party Relationship to charity Nature of transaction 2024/25 2023/24
£000 £000
West Hertfordshire Teaching Corporate Trustee Contribution to the NHS 114 30
hospitals NHS Trust
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2. Income and Endowments

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----- Start of picture text -----
2.1 Donations and Legacies
Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total
Funds Funds Funds Funds Funds Funds
2025 2025 2025 2024 2024 2024
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
A Donations, Grants, 49 310 359 105 240 345
Legacies and
Sponsorship
B Other including events 72 0 72 48 0 48
(received via Just Giving/
Virgin fund pages)
C Lottery income 308 0 308 120 0 120
D Gifts in kind 52 140 192 15 0 15
Total 481 450 931 288 240 528
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2.2
Investment Income
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
2025
2025
2025
2024
2024
2024
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Rathbones -
Dividends and interest		 20
0
20		 22
0
22
Bank Interest 16
0
16		 30
0
30
Total 36
0
36		 52
0
52

3. Expenditure

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----- Start of picture text -----
3 Expenditure
Charitable Raising Total Funds Charitable Raising Total
activities Funds activities Funds Funds
2025 2025 2025 2024 2024 2024
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Medical Equipment - See Note 3.1 200 0 200 8 0 8
 Patient Welfare - See Note 3.1 86 0 86 85 0 85
Staff Welfare - See Note 3.1 131 0 131 85 0 85
Staff training 6 0 6 0 0 0
Course expense and equipment 0 0 0 1 0 1
Computer equipment, branding 125 0 125 60 0 60
& fundraising software
Running Costs 20 0 20 6 0 6
Administration - See Note 3.2 23 0 23 54 0 54
Examination - See Note 3.4 3 0 3 8 0 8
Staff costs - See Note 3.2 242 66 308 195 78 273
Investment fees 6 0 6 6 0 6
Lottery expenses 0 386 386 0 230 230
Total 842 452 1,294 508 308 816
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3.1 Grant Giving*

3.3 Trustees remuneration, benefits and expenses

Expenditure in respect of Medical Equipment, Patient Welfare and Staff Welfare is made in the form of grant funding to West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

No one as part of the corporate trustee of the West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS trust charity was paid any remuneration or expenses in return for their services.

3.2 Staff costs

There are no directly employed staff costs this year or in any previous years. However staff are employed by West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust and recharged to the Charity as detailed below:

3.4 Independent examiner remuneration

The independent examiner’s remuneration related solely to examination with no additional work being undertaken. The actual cost for the current year is £4.8k (2024/25 £8k).

All staff costs and support costs are apportioned across unrestricted and restricted funds with restricted funds recharges capped at 15% per annum subject to any other agreements with funders.

3.5 Lottery expenses

2024/25 has seen considerable investment in canvassing for the lottery in order to build up membership and lead to surpluses by 2026/27.

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4. Gains/(Losses) on Investment Assets

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4 Gains/(Losses) on investment assets
Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Funds Funds
2025 2025 2025 2024 2024 2024
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Realised (losses)/gains 2 0 2 0 0 0
Unrealised gains/(losses) (16) 0 (16) 14 0 14
Total (14) 0 (14) 14 0 14
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5a. Analysis of Fixed Asset Investments

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5a Analysis of fixed asset Investments
Held in Total Total
the UK 2025 2024
£000 £000 £000
Market value at 31 March 2025
Investments listed on Stock Exchange 628 628 638
Cash held as part of the portfolio 3 3 15
Total 631 631 653
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5b. Investment Fixed Assets Portfolio

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5b Analysis of Investment portfolio
Total Total
2025 2024
£000 £000
Market value at 31 March 653 645
Less: Disposals at carrying value (86) (48)
Add: Acquisitions at cost 81 57
Net (loss)/gain on revaluation (14) 14
Movement in Cash balance (3) (15)
Market value at 31 March 631 653
Historic cost at 31 March 630 616
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6. Debtors

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6 Debtors
Total Total
2025 2024
£000 £000
Amounts falling due within one year:
Debtors 43 35
Prepayments and accrued income 34 50
Total debtors 77 85
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7. Cash at Bank

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7 Cash at bank
Total Total
2025 2024
£000 £000
Lloyds Current Account 22 51
NatWest Bank Account 101 496
Total 123 547
8. Creditors
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8. Creditors
8 Creditors
Total Total
2025 2024
£000 £000
Amounts falling due within one year:
Creditors 626 20
Accruals and deferred income 81 800
Total Creditors 707 820
Creditors in both 2024/25 and 2023/24 include amounts due to West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust.
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9a. Reconciliation of net movement in funds and operating deficit before income from bank and investments

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9a Reconciliation of net expenditure with deficit on cashflow
2025 2024
£000 £000
Operating income /(deficit) on Statement of Operating Income (342) (222)
Deduct:
Dividends and interest on investment portfolio (20) (22)
Bank interest (15) (30)
Net loss/(gains) on revaluation 14 (14)
Per cashflow on operating activities (363) (288)
9b. Analysis of cash movements
within the cashflow
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9b. Analysis of cash movements
within the cashfow		 9b. Analysis of cash movements
within the cashfow		 9b. Analysis of cash movements
within the cashfow
9b
Cashfow:Analysis of cash movements within the cashfow
2025
2024
£000
£000
Investing activities
Sale proceeds from investments 86 48
Purchases of fxed assets investments (81) (57)
Movement in Cash balance 3 15
8 6

10.1 Analysis of Funds

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10.a Restricted Funds
Balance Incoming Resources * Gains and Balance
Transfers
31 March Resources Expended Losses 31 March
2024 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Material funds
A Breast Cancer Appeal 16 212 (172) 0 0 56
B Horace Robinson Renal Unit 22 0 (3) 0 0 19
Ca Cancer 2 5 0 0 0 7
Cb Macmillan Cancer Support 3 10 (1) 12
D W.G.Moore Legacy (RenalDialysis) 5 0 (1) 0 0 4
E Youth Volunteering Development 3 0 (1) (2) 0 0
(Note ii)
F Paediatric Cystic Fibrosis 3 0 (0) 0 0 3
G SACH Wellbeing 0 22 (1) 0 0 21
H Cardiology 1 7 (1) 0 0 7
I WACS Courtyard 0 14 (2) 0 0 12
J UK Neqas Unit Training & Educa 4 0 (1) 0 0 3
K KTP LASER 0 10 0 0 0 10
L Colorectal 4 8 (5) 0 0 7
M WGH Elderly Patients 13 0 (2) 0 0 11
N Star of Herts 7 30 (25) (12) 0 0
O Interventional Radiology 6 4 (1) (9) 0 (0)
P Mortuary 2 2 (1) (3) 0 (0)
Q Starfish 17 15 (17) 0 0 15
Ra Maternity Bereavement service 4 1 (2) 0 0 3
Rb Maternity Bereavement 34 (30) 0 0 4
development
S Neonatal 13 4 (8) 0 0 9
T Youth Link 0 6 (1) 0 0 5
U MEC Refurbishment 12 2 (14) 0 0 0
V Kate Newton Fund 12 (2) (2) 0 8
W Staff wellbeing and training 9 2 (7) 0 0 4
X NHC CT - Legacy Campaign 8 74 (82) 0 0 0
Y Small restricted funds 25 22 (17) (5) 0 25
Total 225 450 (397) (33) 0 245
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10.1 Analysis of Funds

Details of material funds - restricted funds

Name of fund

Brief description of the nature and purpose of each fund

Raising funds for Cancer care Raising funds for Breast cancer equipment Dialysis unit patient care and staff training Cancer services at West Herts Renal Dialysis machines Youth Volunteering Development Patient welfare Cathedral Staff Wellbeing Room at St Albans City Hospital Cardiology services Wellbeing Courtyard for Staff and Patients Staff training KTP laser equipment for ENT Robotic staff training for colorectal Elderly patient care Annual Staff Awards to thank our staff

A Breast Cancer Appeal A Breast Cancer Appeal

B Horace Robinson Renal Unit C Cancer D W.G.Moore Legacy (Dialysis) E Youth Volunteering Development F Paediatric Cystic Fibrosis G SACH Wellbeing H Cardiology I WACS Courtyard J UK Neqas Unit Training & Educa K KTP LASER L Colorectal M WGH Elderly Patients N Star of Herts O Interventional Radiology P Mortuary Q Starfish

Scanner appeal Mortuary family space Children’s ward Maternity Bereavement support Maternity Bereavement room refurbishment Neonatal care and refurb Supporting the Youth Link Project with WFC Education Trust Medical education centre refurblishment

Ra Maternity Bereavement service Rb Maternity Bereavement development S Neonatal T Youth Link U MEC Refurbishment

Ward refurblishment

V Kate Newton Fund Ward refurblishment W Staff wellbeing and training Staff support and welfare X NHC CT - Legacy Campaign Award to produce legacy pack Y Small restricted funds Any restricted funds under £500

10.2 Unrestricted Funds

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10.2 Unrestricted Funds
Balance Incoming Resources * Transfers Gains and Balance
31 March Resources Expended Losses 31 March
2024 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Material funds
West Herts General 143 473 (869) 33 0 (220)
Medical and Surgical 65 10 (11) 64
Equipment
Lottery Designated 34 (13) 21
Neurology 22 0 (4) 0 0 18
Investment Gains/(Losses) 10 0 (0) 0 (14) (4)
Total 240 517 (897) 33 (14) (121)
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Details of material funds - unrestricted funds

During the year, several restricted funds were transferred to general funds in accordance with charity legislation. A total of £33k was moved from restricted to general funds. This relates to income from sponsorship for past events where the surplus can be used to fund support given. In addition, £9k from the Interventional Radiology appeal was transferred to reimburse general funds for amounts previously spent in support of the appeal.

The West Herts general fund reported a deficit of £121k. The corporate trustee recognises this negative balance, which reflects the charity’s strategic investment in developing the lottery. The deficit is currently supported through a creditor balance with the NHS Trust, which is anticipated to be repaid from projected surpluses over the next two years.

Plans for 2025/26 and 2026/27 include a renewed emphasis on generating unrestricted income, with a focus on expanding the lottery and increasing legacy fundraising.

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Charity no. 1052210

West Herts Hospitals Charity Sycamore House Watford General Hospital Watford Hertfordshire WD18 0HB

Tel: 01923 436182 Web: whhc.org.uk

Email: westherts.hospitalscharity@nhs.net Instagram: @westhertshospitalcharity Facebook: @West Herts Hospitals Charity LinkedIn: @West Herts Hospitals Charity X: @whhospcharity

© West Herts Hospitals Charity 2025