Derbyshire County Cricket Club brighten the day for patients at Florence Nightingale Community Hospital

  • Written by Anita Kincade
  • Posted: 09 Feb 2026
  • 1 min read

Patients and staff at Derby’s Florence Nightingale Community Hospital enjoyed an early dose of festive spirit this week as players and staff from Derbyshire County Cricket Club dropped in for a special visit arranged by Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity.

The group spent time on Ward 4, which supports stroke rehabilitation, and Ward 5, the hospital’s extended discharge lounge, chatting with patients, handing out small gifts and cards, and brightening what can be long and difficult days for many.

For patients who have been in hospital for several weeks, the visit was a welcome change of pace. Janet, a patient on Ward 4, said: 

“The visit cheered me up very much compared to a normal, mundane day.”

Players and staff took their time with each patient, listening to stories, taking photos, signing cards for them and spreading genuine warmth throughout both wards.

“It’s a privilege for us to spend time with patients and staff at the Florence Nightingale Community Hospital. You can really feel the difference a simple conversation or a small gesture makes. We always want to give something back to our community, and visits like this remind us why those connections matter.”

Jimmy Drew, Commercial Manager at the club
Cricket club members with NHS staff

“We’re so grateful to the team for taking time out of their busy schedules to visit. Many of our patients on these wards are in hospital for longer periods, so moments of connection and distraction make such a meaningful difference. It was lovely to see so many smiles and hear so much laughter.”

Jill Matthews, Chief Officer at Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity,

The visit marks another year of growing partnership between the charity and the club, with both organisations looking forward to continuing their support for staff and patients across the hospitals.

For more information about Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity and how we’re supporting patients and staff this Christmas, please visit our news page News and Features – DBHC