The Young Person's Unit (YPU) based on T12 South at University College Hospital, cares for patients aged 13-19 with chronic and acute illnesses other than cancer.  These illnesses include rheumatological, gastrointestinal and endocrine disorders, many of which are lifelong and some of which can be life threatening.

We have a long history of supporting the YPU, and particularly the Activity Co-ordinators who work with patients on the unit, by helping to fund recreational activities for the patients such as daytrips to the cinema or theatre, as well as equipment and resources including laptops, DVDs, art/craft materials and books.

Frenchesca James, Senior Activity Co-ordinator at the Young Person's Unit, told us, 'Over the past year we have revamped the Recreation Room on the Unit by changing its layout and disposing of old furniture.  This has allowed us to run Zumba sessions and gives the young people a chance to exercise using gaming equipment and combining physiotherapy to make it more fun.  Thanks to some wonderful donations we have been able to purchase ipads and laptops for the ward.  This allows the young people to use medical apps and watch videos that explain what is happening which helps to lessen their anxiety.

Some of our patients are in isolation for 3 or 4 months and they can find this very difficult and lonely.  The London Edition Hotel has generously donated 4 smart TV's for our isolation cubicles, enabling our patients to access the internet and social media to keep in touch with friends and family, as well as allowing them to watch DVDs and television.'

Activity Co-ordinator Jenika Bhudia's family very kindly donated money so that portable TV units could be purchased.  We are very grateful for this gift and all donations to the unit.