Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation (NPCF) has granted Sleapy’s Foundation $92,000 towards the development of a clinically-equipped outdoor courtyard at the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of the John Hunter Hospital, which will benefit children and their families across the New England.
The outdoor courtyard is designed to mimic a tranquil and natural, non-hospital environment, and estimated to offer respite to around 750 young patients and their loved ones from across the New England and Hunter regions each year.
The outdoor area will allow critically ill children to receive life-sustaining treatment in a more natural, comfortable setting outside their clinical rooms, while also providing a space for families and friends to gather, alleviating pressure on the ICU facilities.
NPCF spokesperson Kirrah McClelland said the outdoor space will enhance the overall experience and wellbeing of patients, families and staff at the hospital.
“Research suggests that this outdoor courtyard space could help patients heal and get home to their loved ones sooner, so we feel honoured to support Sleapy’s Foundation on this project,” Ms McClelland said.
“Our grant will cover the planter beds, integrated timber bench seating, waterproofing, landscaping and irrigation for the garden, and we hope that this space brings solace and joy to patients and their families for many years to come.”
Sleapy’s Foundation Founding Director Peter Sleap said the outdoor garden has been thoughtfully designed with functionality in mind.
“We want patients and their families to get the most out of the space and have the opportunity to get some fresh air, sunlight and connect with nature, so the courtyard will have two beds for patients with full medical services panel provisions,” Mr Sleap said.
“We are incredibly grateful for Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation’s support which has helped make the outdoor garden possible for our community.”
Delivered in partnership with Multiplex and Hunter New England Health, The PICU courtyard is due for completion in March 2026.
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