Scarborough Hospital installs its first ‘cuddle bed’ thanks to community efforts
Fundraising campaign aims to enhance end-of-life care with additional beds
Scarborough Hospital has introduced its first ‘cuddle bed,’ a specialised facility that allows patients at the end of life to stay close to their loved ones.
This achievement was made possible by the local community's efforts, supported by York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity.
The Palliative Care Team set a goal to fund the bed through the Autumn Project, focusing on improving end-of-life care across the Trust.
Cuddle beds enable two or more individuals to lie together, providing comfort and connection when it matters most.
The Autumn Project aims to create calming, supportive spaces for patients nearing the end of life, while enhancing consistency of care throughout the wards.
The bed, costing approximately £15,000, has been used multiple times since its arrival and can be relocated across various areas of the hospital, such as the Critical Care Unit and Autumn Rooms.
Fundraising throughout 2025 has been instrumental in this accomplishment.
Highlights include a skydive by clinical nurse specialists, Cassie Halpin and Julie McHugh, raising over £2,000, and a 25-mile sponsored walk by student nurses, generating more than £1,600.
Local supporters Denise Byas and Annie Sheppard raised significant funds in memory of their loved ones, further contributing to the project's success.
Denise Byas from Kilham, East Yorkshire started fundraising shortly after her husband Richard passed away in Scarborough Hospital.
His last request was for his wife was to lie next to him, but this was not possible with a standard hospital bed.
Mrs Byas helped fundraise so other people don't encounter the same situation.
Emma Sargent, Fundraising Manager at York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity, expressed gratitude for the community's generosity.
“Funding the first cuddle bed is a really meaningful milestone,” Sargent said.
“It’s only been possible because of the generosity and determination of so many people in our community. Every donation, every event and every challenge has played a part in making this happen.”
The charity is now urging individuals, groups, and businesses to participate in supporting the next phase of the Autumn Project, aiming to finance additional cuddle beds for wards across York.