May 19, 2025At Northern Health, small acts of kindness are making a big difference. Whether it’s the comforting touch of a handmade blanket or the quiet escape offered by a good book, the Care and Comfort Program and Patient Libraries are enriching the hospital experience for patients and residents alike.
These two initiatives were developed by the Library and Information Literacy Services team to enhance person-centred care. Their goal is to create welcoming, compassionate environments that support emotional wellbeing alongside clinical care.
The Care and Comfort Program, officially launched in early 2025, provides handmade items – beanies, blankets, baby cardigans, sensory toys, and more – that bring colour, warmth, and a sense of human connection to hospital stays. To date, more than 500 items have been lovingly shared with patients and residents across Northern Health.
Each piece is made and donated by generous volunteers from the community, including the Friends of Wyndham Craft Group, Epping RSL Poppy Ladies, Knit for Charities, and several skilled staff members. These small tokens of care are more than just gifts – they are reminders that people outside hospital walls are thinking of those within them.
“The beanie I received was warm and comforting and reminded me that someone cared enough to make it,” said one patient.
“It was wonderful to have a blanket – it was so bright and colourful and helped cheer me up. It was nice to have when you come to hospital with nothing,” said Amy Stewart, consumer from Ward 23.
Kathryn Visser, OT in Ward 7, says the provision of crochet and quilted blankets has added warmth to the overall space on the Ward.
“Consumers have enjoyed using the blankets outside on warm days, to sit on together and enjoy our morning coffee group with. The small crochet flowers have been enjoyed and utilised as sensory fidget tools, and many have been given to consumers to take home on discharge to provide ongoing support as a tool in their recovery.”
In parallel, the Patient Libraries have transformed hospital wards into places of mental retreat and imagination. First piloted in late 2024, this rotating collection of books and magazines now spans 28 libraries across Northern Health facilities, offering almost 1,500 titles for patients and residents to enjoy.
The collection is entirely donation-based, with a wide range of genres including fiction, non-fiction, crime, romance, biographies, graphic novels, children’s books, and magazines covering puzzles, lifestyle, gardening and current affairs. Curated and replenished by the library team, the Patient Libraries provide more than just entertainment – they offer distraction, comfort, and a sense of normalcy.
“I didn’t expect a library in hospital. It was such a nice surprise – something to read helped the time pass and made it feel a little more like home,” was one patient’s feedback.
“The books in the Patient Libraries are very popular and help people to explore new worlds, perspectives and ideas,” said Jason Ray, Senior OT, Ward 23.
“Thanks to the NH Library, we’ve replaced the old books at Dianella Hostel with a fresh selection – it’s wonderful for our residents,” says Susan Palmer, Executive Assistant, Kilmore District Hospital.
“Although the patient library is a new addition to Ward 9, we know it will help patients pass time and ease some of the stress before surgery. It’s been great to see patients already engaging with the books and resources,” noted Fran Daly, A/Num, DPU, Northern Health.
These programs are not only effective but entirely community-powered, relying on the goodwill and contributions of volunteers, staff and local donors. They reflect Northern Health’s broader commitment to treating each person with dignity and compassion – providing care not only for the body, but for the mind and spirit too.
“These initiatives support emotional wellbeing and a sense of dignity during what can be a vulnerable time. Something as simple as a book or a handmade item can help patients and residents feel more connected, cared for and at ease in a clinical environment,” says Tania Barry, Director, Library and Information Literacy Services.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the NH library team for setting up a small library on Ward 18. For many of our patients, hospital stays – especially following surgery – can be long, stressful and emotionally challenging. Reading can be a powerful companion in recovery, and we believe having access to books of all reading abilities will bring comfort, distraction and a sense of normalcy to our patients and their families. We look forward to sharing patient’s experiences and feedback with the ward’s library in the near future,” said Hannah Conrick, NUM of Ward 18.
Whether it’s a crocheted fiddle item helping someone feel more grounded, a cheerful magazine brightening a long day, or a soft blanket offering comfort in an unfamiliar room, these small touches are making a lasting impression.
As one patient put it best, “The blanket was beautiful. It has made a big difference to my room.”
Pictured in featured image: Staff from Ward 18 at the Patient Library
