Patients and staff on Sunderland Ward at South Pembrokeshire Hospital are enjoying a welcome boost to their daily lives, thanks to the generosity of the local community. Generous donations made to Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official NHS charity of the local health board, have funded a brand-new selection of games, crafts, and engaging activities designed to brighten hospital stays and support patient wellbeing.
Supporting Rehabilitation and Recovery
Sunderland Ward serves as a vital inpatient rehabilitation unit, caring primarily for adult patients who no longer require acute medical treatment but still need extra care and strength-building before safely returning home. The new resources, which include wooden dominoes, jigsaws, acrylic paints, brushes, and print books, offer patients rewarding ways to stay active, socialise, and pass the time during their recovery.
These activities are specifically designed to support patients by encouraging independence, offering distraction, and providing opportunities for creative expression. They also help create a calmer, more engaging environment for those spending time on the ward, which can significantly enhance the overall patient experience.
Positive Impact on Patient Care
Nicola Zroud, senior nurse manager, expressed her gratitude, saying: “We’re so pleased that charitable funds have enabled us to purchase these items for Sunderland Ward. These new activities will make a real difference to our patients. Many of the individuals we care for benefit greatly from moments of calm, creativity and independence. Having these resources available helps us provide a more positive, person-centred experience.”
The initiative is a prime example of how charitable support can go above and beyond standard NHS provisions. Nicola Llewelyn, head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, emphasised the importance of community backing: “These games and activities are a wonderful example of how charitable support enhances patient wellbeing. The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”
How to Get Involved
For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, visit the Hywel Dda Health Charities website at www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk. The charity continues to rely on public generosity to fund projects that make a tangible difference in hospitals across the region, including this latest addition to Sunderland Ward.



