NHS Community Trust (HRCH) is establishing a state-of-the-art pain clinic at Teddington Memorial Hospital to help alleviate those suffering from chronic pain in the community.

The new clinic aims to improve access to a wide range of services, from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, and help match increasing demand for specialised pain care as the population ages.

The Friends of Teddington Memorial Hospital (FTMH) is raising money for furniture, decoration and equipment above NHS funding, improving how patients feel when they are at the clinic.

FTMH has pledged to support the pain clinic project with a minimum £150,000 contribution.

To help its fundraising efforts, the non-profit is launching a naming and artwork competition for the Pain Clinic and six treatment rooms, open to the borough's primary school children in Years 3 to 6.

A panel of judges comprising the Trustees of The League of Friends of Teddington Memorial Hospital will select the winning names, judged on their originality, creativity, and inspiration.

Following this, a ceremony will be held to unveil the chosen names in front of the winners, their families and teachers.

FTMH is encouraging local schools to get involved with their newly-announced competition. (Photo: The Friends of Teddington Memorial Hospital)

The League's chairman, Simon Douglas Lane, commented: "Hosting this naming and artwork competition involves the community, encouraging creativity and innovation among young participants. It helps ensure diverse perspectives are considered and helps foster inclusivity in decision-making. 

"By engaging children in creating artwork and in the naming decision, we help foster a sense of community ownership and connection to the pain clinic, building support for the clinic's success."

HRCH says it is excited to involve the community in this endeavour and look forward to receiving creative suggestions and artwork from local children.

For terms and conditions, judging criteria, and to enter, visit the FTMH website here.