A new campaign has been launched to raise £250,000 for patients receiving life-changing care at the St Andrew's Centre, part of Broomfield Hospital in Essex. The St Andrew's Burns and Plastics Appeal, spearheaded by Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, will fund projects designed to improve recovery, comfort, and wellbeing for both children and adults treated at this specialist regional centre.
Centre of Excellence for Burns and Plastics
For more than 50 years, St Andrew's Centre has been a centre of excellence in burns, plastics, and dermatology care. It serves as a major regional hub, providing burns, plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as hand therapy services to patients across Essex and beyond. The appeal aims to enhance the environment and facilities for patients and their families.
Patient Story: Maizie Stockwell
One patient whose life has been transformed by the centre is Maizie Stockwell. The burns team has cared for Maizie since she suffered a severe burn injury at just eight months old. Her mother, Jodie Stockwell, from Terling near Chelmsford, shared her family's experience: "When Maizie was airlifted to Broomfield Hospital, it was the burns team that saved my daughter's life. As a family, we see the children's ward as our second home and the team as an extension of our family. Maizie has had 57 operations in total, and many of those have been at Broomfield. When she's been unable to leave the ward due to infection risk, it's been the themed rooms, toys, sensory lights, and games that have made all the difference. The beds mean we can stay close to her too. When it comes to clinical care, emotional support, and friendship, we couldn't ask for more."
Amputation and Resilience
One of Maizie's most recent operations involved the amputation of her leg below the knee due to her burns injuries. The operation took place on her 14th birthday. The appeal will support patients like Maizie by creating a more supportive environment.
Charity Director's Appeal
Lucy Thomas-Clayton, director for Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, said: "For many patients like Maizie, a devastating burn, traumatic injury or cancer diagnosis can change life in an instant. We already know the amazing specialist teams at the St Andrew's Centre deliver expert treatment when it matters most, helping people through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. With your support we want to do even more."
Planned Improvements
Funds raised through this appeal will help create a more supportive and comforting environment for patients and their loved ones. Planned improvements include enhanced waiting and treatment areas, overnight beds for relatives, sensory items and artwork for children, and investment in specialist facilities and training. From emergency care and reconstructive surgery to rehabilitation and psychological support, the teams help patients rebuild confidence, independence, and hope.
Senior Sister's Perspective
Tanya Bradd, senior sister on the children's burns ward, said: "In my 16 years on the children's burns ward, I've met some remarkable children who have shown incredible resilience. Their families are remarkable too. Going further for our patients is something we do every day. Support from this appeal will help us provide those extra touches that make a big difference."
How to Support
The charity is encouraging individuals, community groups, and businesses to support the appeal through donations, fundraising events, and sponsored challenges. To find out more or support the appeal, visit the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust website. The appeal covers areas including Braintree, Chelmsford, Harlow, Loughton, Maldon, Farleigh, Castle Point, Rochford, Southend, Thurrock, Basildon, and Brentwood in Essex.
