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Friends of West Kerry Community Hospital has been formed to support the elderly residents at West Kerry Community Hospital. The primary objective of our group is to enhance the well-being of the patients by providing engaging activities and purchasing products that may not be readily available through the health service. By organizing various activities, such as art classes, tours, and social events, the group aims to create a vibrant and inclusive environment for the patients. These activities will not only help alleviate boredom and loneliness but also promote mental and emotional well-being.
Additionally, the group will work closely with healthcare professionals and staff at West Kerry Community Hospital to identify specific needs and requirements of the residents. This includes purchasing specialized equipment, mobility aids, audio visual equipment and other products that can improve the quality of life for elderly patients.
The establishment of this group reflects a strong commitment to the well-being of elderly residents in West Kerry. Through its efforts, it strives to create a supportive and enriching environment that enhances the overall experience of patients at West Kerry Community Hospital.
We fund regular entertainment for the hospital residents including Zumba and live music from local artists and bands. We also fund Video Streaming and Music Streaming subscriptions.
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) was installed at the front entrance of the hospital in August 2026 with generous support from SHU Dingle and Friends of WKCH. This lifesaving unit is available to the public 24/7. It is located to the left of the hospital’s main front door for quick and easy access.
In July 2026, Friends of WKCH funded a new set of display shelves for the main hospital hallway. The unit now showcases artwork created by residents and provides space for important health information for visitors and families.
In July 2026, Friends of WKCH purchased and installed a new large bookcase in the Croí Room. This addition complements the wider upgrades completed in the living room, creating a more welcoming and functional space for residents and visitors.
In June 2026, Friends of WKCH completed the refurbishment of the hospital’s Hair Dressing Room. The upgrade included new décor, wallpaper, shelving, and furniture, along with fresh supplies and modern hair‑dressing tools to enhance the service for residents.
In June 2026, Friends of WKCH commissioned a new media wall for the main sitting room (Croí Room). The installation features a large electric fire and an integrated sound bar for the Smart TV. This project formed part of a broader renovation of the sitting room to create a more comfortable and modern space for residents.
In May 2026, Friends of WKCH purchased and installed a series of garden planters at the front of the hospital. The project introduced a mix of flowers, small trees, and greenery, along with several large feature planters, enhancing the entrance and creating a more welcoming outdoor space.
In May 2026, Friends of WKCH replanted the flower beds in Modules Two and Three with fresh seasonal plants and flowers. The renewed beds added colour and life to the outdoor spaces, giving residents a bright and uplifting environment to enjoy throughout the summer months.
With support from Friends of WKCH, two new display screens were installed in the hospital in February 2026. They now show helpful health information, regulatory updates, upcoming events, and local community videos — keeping residents and visitors informed and connected.
In February 2026 Friends Of WKCH purchased two more fish tanks for Module 2 and 3 in the hospital. One was custom made to fit under the counter in one of the modules. This addition allows all residents to enjoy the fish tanks.
In December 2025, Friends of WKCH completed the installation of a dedicated Family Room at WKCH. This space was created to support the loved ones of residents who may need to stay overnight or take a quiet moment to themselves. The room includes a fold‑out sofa bed, a small kitchenette, and a TV.
In November 2025, Friends of WKCH purchased and installed festive Christmas lights for the hospital. The displays brighten the front entrance and several courtyards, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patients, staff, and visitors. Designed to be reused year after year, these lights will continue to bring joy to the hospital community each holiday season
In October 2025, Friends of WKCH purchased and installed new table lamps and seasonal room décor in the hospital’s main dining room. These thoughtful additions help create a more homely, welcoming atmosphere, bringing the space in line with the feel of a residential care setting.
In October 2025, Friends of WKCH purchased a selection of premium throws and blankets to enhance the comfort of residents' rooms at the hospital. These additions bring both warmth and a splash of colour, helping to create a more welcoming and homely environment.
In August 2025, a new fountain was installed in one of the outdoor courtyards at WKCH. This elegant addition brings soothing sound and ambiance to the space, creating a more tranquil and welcoming environment. The fountain is also illuminated for night time enjoyment
In June 2025, Friends of WKCH purchased a new sofa for the public hallway. The new sofa creates a new meeting space for families and friends of residents.
In June 2025, Friends of WKCH purchased two new electric recliner chairs to enhance resident comfort at the hospital. These chairs fully recline and adjust in height for easy access, offering convenience and support. Thoughtfully designed, they also feature a built-in reading lamp and USB phone charging ports
In June 2025, We installed a new TV and shelving surround in module 2 (Ionad Bhréanainn). This will create a new leisure space in the module and can be used for local church broadcasts.
In May 2025, Friends of WKCH revitalised the outdoor courtyards by refurbishing and painting the plant beds, planting two new trees, and upgrading essential outdoor services, including hose pipes. To enhance the space, we also installed decorative solar and mains-powered lights, adding both functionality and ambiance.
In April 2025, Friends of WKCH purchased a selection of décor items to enhance the hospital environment, including dining room furniture, side tables, lamps, storage baskets, and photo frame shelves.
In April 2025 Friends of WKCH purchased new storage units for some of the residents rooms. These included wall storage cabinets, storage trolleys and wall shelves. This will allow residents to have more places to store their own personal belongings.
In April 2025 Friends of WKCH purchased a new coffee machine for the residents of WKCH. The machine is fully automatic and is programmed to allow a wide range of beverages to suit residents tastes.
In March 2025, Friends of WKCH purchased and installed new air care products throughout the hospital’s modular units. These additions help maintain a fresher, more pleasant environment by reducing the impact of odours from nearby service areas.
In March 2025 Friends Of WKCH purchased two new fish tanks for the hospital. Each tank contains around 50 fish. Other care facilities have found fish tanks to be great addition for the relaxation and comfort of residents.
In February 2025 Friends Of WKCH purchased new Curtains, Quilts and Quilt covers for residents rooms in both modules. We also purchased new curtains for the dining areas within the modules and new tablecloths, runners and blinds for the main Dining Room.
In February 2025 Friends Of WKCH purchased and installed an electric candle unit in the hospital chapel. This allows residents to light LED candles free of charge and with ease.
In December Friends Of WKCH funded the annual Christmas Tree outside the hospital. Funding was also provided for additional decorations.
In November 2024 we supplied and installed multiple Smart Speakers in the hospital. This will enable residents to listen to radio, podcasts and any song on demand with high quality speakers.
In August 2024 Friends Of WKCH purchased 3 large Smart TVs for the hospital. These are to replace existing smaller TV's that did not have smart functionality for on demand TV and Sports.
In April 2024 we purchased sets of specialised Duvets and covers for the hospital. The bedding is easier to clean and is more comfortable compared with the standard bedding provided. There were over 100 pieces purchased in total.