Wednesday 21 October

To mark six decades of service to local healthcare, the Friends of Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital (Friends of SaTH) today announces an ambitious £1 million fundraising appeal – Breathing Life – to fund specialist medical equipment for a new, dedicated Respiratory Centre at the Princess Royal Hospital (PRH) in Telford.

The announcement was made during the charity’s 60th Anniversary celebration at Adcote School, attended by over 110 distinguished civic leaders, dignitaries, NHS executives, and long-serving volunteers.

Currently, patients across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid Wales with severe lung conditions often face fragmented care across multiple hospital sites, long stays on general wards, or out-of-county travel for specialist treatment. Planned to open in Spring 2029 , the new dedicated centre will bring specialist assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and wraparound care under one roof.

Living with Severe Respiratory Illness: Amelia’s Story

For respiratory patient Amelia, who lives with severe asthma and a rare immune deficiency, everyday life is uncertain. A simple cold can quickly lead to a serious lung infection and exhausting hospital stays.

“I don’t want to be known just for being unwell all the time. I want a normal life. But more than that, I want a good life,” says Amelia. “A dedicated centre locally would bring the specialist care and equipment we need closer to home. Anything big or small matters – it’s about comfort, quality of life, and securing up-to-date equipment for us now and for future generations.”

Clinical Leadership and Vision
Speaking ahead of the anniversary event, Dr Saskia Jones-Perrott , Divisional Medical Director for Medicine & Emergency Care at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), highlighted the transformative potential of the project: “This new centre is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. By bringing our specialist teams and purpose-designed facilities together, we can significantly shorten hospital stays, reduce unnecessary admissions, and ensure our patients receive the right care in the right place at the right time.”

In a recorded address, Dr Amruta Lacy-Colson , Clinical Director for Respiratory Medicine and Trust Lead for Advanced Clinical Practitioners, added: “My one wish is that we build a Respiratory Centre that stands the test of time… Brilliant facilities attract the best physicians, and the best facilities ensure our patients get the best possible outcomes.”

Jo Williams , Chief Executive Officer of SaTH, also addressed attendees to express deep gratitude for six decades of community support and to endorse the strategic importance of the new centre.

Kickstarting the £1m Target

The Friends of SaTH is inviting local residents, businesses, community groups, and trusts to become Founding Supporters of the Breathing Life appeal through one-off donations, regular giving, corporate sponsorships, or challenge events.

The campaign has already received a head start from early supporters:

  • The Wynn Foundation: Trustees Jenny and Graham Wynn OBE presented a cheque for £2,642 to fund an INR Point of Care machine for the new centre.
  • Mathew James of Source Design Agency: raised £1,600 through the summer Dink with Friends Pickleball event.

Celebrating 60 Years of Impact

Since its inception in 1966, the charity (formerly known as The League of Friends) has raised over £10 million for medical equipment and facilities at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital. Alongside the new appeal, the charity has launched a refreshed identity, website, and digital channels to engage the next generation of supporters.

Iain Gilmour , Chairman of the Friends of SaTH, remarked: “Reaching our 60th anniversary is a remarkable milestone, built on the dedication of our volunteers and the immense generosity of our community. As we look to the future, the £1 million ‘Breathing Life’ appeal represents our boldest commitment yet to improving healthcare for everyone in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid Wales.”

To donate, fundraise, or become a Founding Supporter, visit The Friends website.

Photo captions:

Photo 1: Iain Gilmour Friends Chairman, Sue Skinner Friends Trustee, and Jenny Wynn OBE (Vice Lord-Lieutenant) and Graham Wynn OBE from the Wynn Foundation

Photo 2: Group CEO, Jo Williams speaking at the anniversary event