FRIDAY, 31 JULY, 2026

Photograph attached: L-R Head of Spiritual Care and Bereavement Alister Bull, Chair Tom Spink, Suzanne Scott, artist/illustrator at WhimSicAL LusH, Lorna Edwards, Children and Young People Lead, NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, Jaclyn Flood, Head of Finance, NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, Director of Allied Health Professions Nic Richardson, Chief Executive Nicky Connor

Newly refurbished Sanctuary space opens at Ninewells Hospital

NHS Tayside celebrated the opening of the newly refurbished Sanctuary at Ninewells Hospital this week, giving patients, families and staff a quiet place for rest and reflection.

The Sanctuary has been thoughtfully developed as a welcoming place where people can find calm, respite and support away from the demands of a busy healthcare environment. Open to people of all faiths and beliefs, as well as those with no religious affiliation, the space offers an opportunity to pause, reflect and reconnect.

NHS Tayside Chair Tom Spink and Chief Executive Nicky Connor joined staff, volunteers, supporters and guests to celebrate the opening of the Sanctuary and learn more about its role in supporting wellbeing across the hospital community.

Tom Spink said, “We know that healthcare is about much more than treating physical illness, and this beautiful new space recognises the importance of emotional, spiritual and personal wellbeing. The Sanctuary will offer comfort, reflection and support to patients, families, staff, volunteers and visitors, and I am delighted to see it officially opened.”

Alister Bull, Head of Spiritual Care, said, “The Sanctuary has been created for everyone. Whether someone wishes to sit quietly, reflect, pray, remember a loved one, gather their thoughts, or simply take a moment away from the clinical environment, this space offers a sense of welcome and belonging. We hope it will become an important resource for patients, families, staff and visitors alike.”

Taking inspiration from the woodlands, wildflowers and green spaces around Ninewells Hospital, local designer Suzanne Scott of WhimSicAL LusH used natural colours, woodland imagery and sustainable materials to create a peaceful, inclusive environment. The refurbishment was made possible through funding from the NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation.

Suzanne said, “It has been an honour to design for The Sanctuary at Ninewells Hospital. Drawing on people's experiences and the hospital's beautiful green spaces, particularly the Arboretum, the design reflects the nature of Tayside through woodland imagery, native plants and subtle references to the River Tay. I hope it provides a calm, welcoming space for anyone who needs a moment of reflection or respite.”

Contact:

Nisha Pawar

NHS Tayside Communications

07483 354741