The surprise gesture, funded by Our Bolton NHS Charity, took place this week to help people stay cool during the recent spell of hot weather.
(Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)
Working with ward teams, the charity distributed ice creams to patients where it was clinically appropriate, while staff also received the frozen treats as a thank you for their work during the heatwave.
The initiative aimed to provide a small boost to patients, families and healthcare workers, with many praising the thoughtful gesture.
(Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)
One woman, whose grandmother is receiving palliative care at the hospital, said the ice cream meant a great deal to her family.
She said: “Only last week we had a conversation about how hot she is feeling, and she has the sweetest tooth ever, so wanted to get an ice cream.
“Then today she was told she can have anything she wants, so she chose an ice cream.
(Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)
“We came downstairs and found out she can have a free ice cream from Our Bolton NHS Charity, which is so kind.
“It’s going to be the last thing she has, so thank you very much.”
(Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)
Another visitor added: “It’s such a wonderful, thoughtful idea to offer free ice creams to patients and staff.
“We are very thankful, thank you.”
(Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)
Sharon White, Chief of Strategy and Partnerships at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said hot weather can make a hospital stay even more difficult for patients.
She said: “Being in hospital during the warm weather can be particularly challenging for patients.
“Many people spend long periods away from family, friends and the comforts of home, and periods of hot weather can make that experience even more difficult.
“While delivering excellent clinical care will always be our priority, we know that small gestures can have a big impact on how people feel during their recovery.
(Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)
“Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, we were able to bring comfort to patients and a moment of appreciation for the staff who work so hard to care for them.
“Sometimes it’s the smallest acts of kindness that make the biggest difference.”
(Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)
Our Bolton NHS Charity supports projects, equipment and initiatives that go beyond NHS budgets to improve the experience of patients, families and staff across the trust.
The charity said the ice cream giveaway was one example of the small acts of kindness made possible through donations from supporters.