Former patient gives back to care team

A Newcastle-based healthcare team is set to benefit from charitable funding inspired by a former patient’s recovery journey.

The Social, Therapeutic and Recreational Rehabilitation Team (STARRT), based at Walkergate Park Hospital, will receive £1200 from The Clifford Chance Foundation to support activities that help patients regain independence and improve quality of life during rehabilitation. 

The funding will be used to cover taxi transport for patient outings, alongside new activity and entertainment equipment for ward common rooms.

STARRT supports patients through a programme of social and leisure activities designed to restore confidence and provide a sense of normality alongside clinical care. 

Outings include simple but meaningful experiences such as fish and chips trips and walking football sessions, offering patients something to look forward to during their recovery.

The donation has been made following a nomination by Clifford Chance paralegal Jack Warren, who received care from the team after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome in 2024. 

After spending several months across acute, community and rehabilitation settings, Jack was discharged from Walkergate Park later that year and has since returned to full-time work.

Jack said: “I didn’t know Walkergate Park existed. 

“I suppose you don’t know about it until you need it and then it becomes your whole world. 

“I had such a positive experience there that has stayed with me ever since. 

“It’s hard to describe but I felt like my legs had turned to wood. 

“I didn’t know what was happening. 

“I fell over and couldn’t get back up. 

“I had a few seizures and couldn’t walk or use my hands after that. 

“It’s so strange to be walking fine one day and then be completely immobile a few weeks later.” 

Jack added: “I was sceptical of STARRT to begin with. 

“I thought it would be too much like forced fun. 

I wasn’t the most receptive at first but it changed me. 

“I see the world differently since my time at Walkergate Park. 

“It sounds cliché but STARRT brought me out of my shell. 

“Engaging with different patients has made me more understanding and empathetic.  

“Not only did I leave Walkergate Park physically better, but I was also in a much better place mentally.

“One of my biggest fears when I went into Walkergate Park was feeling like I was trapped there, but STARRT made me feel like I was part of a community rather than in hospital.” 

On being able to give back, Jack added: “Last Christmas I went to the ward to give everyone chocolates, but this money will be way more impactful.  

“It feels like restoring karma. 

“They did good by me, so I’ll do good by them. 

“It’s great that The Clifford Chance Foundation has given me the opportunity to help.” 

Advanced occupational therapist Amelia Carter added: “The whole team are honoured to be remembered so fondly by Jack and to hear STARRT made such a difference to him. 

“This donation will go such a long way in helping countless patients at Walkergate Park access meaningful leisure and social activities, supporting their overall recovery and wellbeing.  

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to Jack and his employer for this incredibly generous donation.” 

The contribution will help ensure future patients can continue to access the activities and support that form a core part of STARRT’s rehabilitation approach. 

The funding sits alongside wider charitable support delivered through CNTW’s dedicated funds for individual wards and services, helping enhance patient experiences beyond clinical treatment.

Daria Ansari-Saeid, marketing officer for CNTW Charity, added: “We were delighted to hear from Jack about his experience at Walkergate Park and the impact STARRT made on his wellbeing and recovery. 

“We are so grateful for the generous donation from Clifford Chance that will enhance the experience of patients receiving care at Walkergate Park.” 

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →