In a significant event for healthcare in the South West this week, Her Majesty The Queen officially opened the Dyson Cancer Centre at the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust.
The Queen also gave an update about the King’s cancer treatment saying “he’s doing very well”.
Accompanied by hospital leaders and dignitaries, Queen Camilla toured the state-of-the-art facility, which consolidates much of the hospital’s cancer treatment and research under one roof.
During her visit, Her Majesty met with both clinical staff and patients in the Medlock Unit, where she spoke to those receiving chemotherapy treatment.
Serving over 500,000 people across the South West, the Royal United Hospital’s cancer services have long been a cornerstone of healthcare in the region. The new Dyson Cancer Centre is now one of the largest cancer hubs in the area, offering a wide range of services including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and a dedicated 22-bed inpatient ward. The facility also houses nuclear medicine teams, a research hub, and a bespoke pharmacy, streamlining the treatment journey for patients.
The centre was made possible through a combination of public and private funding. Over 11,000 individuals contributed to raise £10 million for the project, while an additional £40 million was provided by the Government. The centre began receiving patients in April this year after construction commenced in 2021.
Her Majesty was particularly engaged during her visit to the Macmillan Wellbeing Hub, a calming, non-clinical space where patients, families, and carers receive both practical and emotional support. Here, The Queen spoke with patients, listening intently to their stories and learning about the holistic care offered at the centre.
The Queen also visited the William Budd inpatient ward, where she spent time with staff and patients, before attending a reception in the centre’s main atrium. At the gathering, Her Majesty met with those involved in the centre’s construction, as well as supporters and members of staff.
To mark the occasion, The Queen unveiled a plaque, officially inaugurating the Dyson Cancer Centre, a significant development for cancer care in the region.
This royal visit underscores the importance of the facility, which is poised to be a beacon of hope and healing for many in the South West.
