Youngsters supported by University Hospitals Dorset’s Children’s Development Centre (CDC) are enjoying a revitalised play area.
The project at Poole Hospital, which includes new play equipment and sensory items, was made possible by a generous donation from Ken Thorp.
The businessman lived in Dorset for many decades and ran a wholesale supplier of catering equipment.
When he died in 2023, he left the bulk of his estate to several Dorset and Hampshire-based charities that support children.
Alongside his legacy, a grant from local charitable trust, the Valentine Charitable Trust, and donations from the community helped bring the new play area to life.
Ken’s friends John Smith and Tim Jones, who are also his executors of his estate, attended a grand unveiling alongside University Hospitals Dorset colleagues and children and families supported by the CDC.
Caroline Fawcett, University Hospitals Dorset’s lead health play specialist, said: “We’re very grateful for the donations to update the outdoor play area at the Children’s Development Centre.
“The play area provides a space where children can freely be themselves and engage in play that supports their emotional wellbeing, physical recovery and developmental progress.
“Not only is this a resource for the paediatric services provided at the Children’s Development Centre, but also an essential part of holistic paediatric care.”
Debbie Anderson, University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity head of charity, said: “We are so profoundly grateful to Ken Thorp, and his friends Tim Jones and John Smith who were appointed his executors, for bringing to life this remarkable play area where children can find moments of joy and respite.”
The play area’s major makeover includes a range of stimulating equipment for the hospitals’ young patients, including a nautical-themed climb and slide area, fun animal spring rider, colourful sensory items, swings and more.
Tim said: “Knowing how much Ken cherished supporting children in Dorset and Hampshire, we – John and myself as his friends and executors of his estate – felt the refurbishment of this play area at Poole Hospital was a fitting way to honour Ken’s legacy.
“He had such a generous heart, especially when supporting the health and wellbeing of children in our community.
“To think this vibrant new space will now be filled with laughter and joy, providing a little escape for children supported by University Hospitals Dorset, would have meant the world to Ken.”