Generous donation to support young people at Kent and Medway Adolescent Hospital
Date added: 14 April 2026
Last updated: 14 April 2026
Young people receiving care at Kent and Medway Adolescent Hospital are benefiting from a generous donation to mark the launch of a newly integrated mental health service across Kent and Medway.
At the start of April, a new chapter began for mental health care in the region, with Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust becoming responsible for specialist mental health services for adults, children and young people, as well as the all-age eating disorder service. For the first time, everyone in Kent and Medway is now supported by one local NHS mental health trust.
To mark this milestone, the McInnes family and St Nicolas Church in Allington donated an Xbox to the trust’s charity, Health, Heart, Hope. The gift will help provide comfort, relaxation and opportunities for connection for young people receiving inpatient care at Kent and Medway Adolescent Hospital.
Kent and Medway Adolescent Hospital provides specialist inpatient mental health care for young people. It has capacity for up to 14 patients and offers a safe, therapeutic environment for those experiencing severe mental health difficulties.
Gaming equipment can play an important role in supporting wellbeing during a hospital stay. It provides opportunities for relaxation, social interaction and positive distraction, helping young people stay connected with others and take part in shared activities.
Kirsty McInnes Charity and Volunteer Lead at Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust, said:
“It means so much to see this donation reach our young people. My mum, Caroline McInnes, was one of the donors and has spent her working life supporting children and young people, so to be able to give back in this way, to something so close to her heart, is incredibly special. It feels like a truly meaningful way to begin this new chapter together.”
Sara Boorman Interim Service Director at Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust, said:
“We are incredibly grateful for this wonderful donation, which will make a real difference to the young people in our care. Gifts like this provide opportunities for patients to relax, socialise and connect during what can often be a difficult time while in hospital.”
The donation reflects strong community support for local mental health services and highlights the positive impact small acts of kindness can have on patient experience. Items such as games consoles can help create a more welcoming and supportive environment for young people receiving care.
Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust and its charity, Health, Heart, Hope, welcome donations that help improve patient experience across services.
A heartfelt thank you to the McInnes family and St Nicolas Church for their kindness and support, which will help improve the experience of children and young people receiving care at Kent and Medway Adolescent Hospital.
