Northampton Hospital offers free cards to patients from loved ones worldwide
A new digital service allows families to send messages directly to the ward
Northampton General Hospital has launched a new volunteer-led service, allowing families and friends to send personalised messages to patients online.
The virtual messaging service, with funding from Northamptonshire Health Charity, is helping to ensure patients are staying connected across the miles.
People are now able to upload messages on the hospital's website which are then printed onto cards and delivered by hospital volunteers to patients, aimed at alleviating loneliness and anxiety during hospital stays.
Emma Wimpress, Head of Volunteer Services at University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, explained the motivation behind the programme. She explained: “We wanted to make sure patients were still feeling that connection with friends and family across the country and around the world.
''This allows people to send messages not just for special occasions, but simply to let loved ones know they’re thinking of them. ''
''It’s about bringing a smile to our patients’ faces and making a meaningful difference during their stay.”
The service has been warmly received by patients and families, with Wimpress noting that recipients were pleasantly surprised and touched by the gesture.
“I think they were quite taken aback, some of the patients, not because their family and friends and loved ones were thinking of them.
''I think good old‑fashioned post brings a smile to anyone's face.” She added.
With support from more than 550 volunteers, families can complete a simple online form, select a card design and add a personal message. Volunteers then prepare the card and deliver it directly to the patient’s ward – a moment that, according to Wimpress, often sparks conversations about the patient’s loved ones.
''It's a conversation starter, particularly for those who aren't seeing people on a regular basis.'' She said.
To participate, families can visit the hospital's website to send messages free of charge, with delivery managed efficiently by the volunteer team.