Cranleigh Hospital League of Friends celebrates 75 years of community healthcare support

Cranleigh Hospital League of Friends is celebrating 75 years of working tirelessly to ensure that residents have access to high-quality healthcare services close to home. This remarkable milestone is not just a time to reflect on the incredible achievements and impacts of the past decades, but also an opportunity for the charity to relaunch with a fresh new look for the future.

Since its inception in 1949, Cranleigh Hospital League of Friends has played a crucial role in maintaining and expanding the range of healthcare services offered at Cranleigh Village Hospital, Cranleigh Medical Practice and within the community.

Over the years, the League has successfully raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to support and enhance local healthcare services. Over the past five years alone, the League of Friends has contributed nearly £360,000 to the Radiology Department, which provides vital diagnostic services, £37,000 towards the establishment of the Maternity Hub, and over £10,000 for the purchase of a bladder scanner.

The League has also helped fund the purchase and installation of nine community defibrillators throughout Cranleigh. Additionally, it provides an annual grant of £30,000 to Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care, ensuring exceptional end-of-life care for patients beyond NHS capabilities, and a £10,000 annual contribution to Cranleigh Medical Practice for essential medical equipment.

To commemorate its 75th anniversary, the League of Friends has undergone an exciting rebrand, complete with a refreshed website and a presence on social media. This refresh reflects the League of Friends ongoing commitment to innovation and community engagement.

Dr Mike Bundy, Acting Chairman of the Cranleigh League of Friends, expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone, saying: “Celebrating 75 years is a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of our community. The League of Friends has been an integral part of Cranleigh’s healthcare journey, and our new look is a symbol of our commitment to continue this vital work for many more years to come. We are excited to move forward with renewed energy and invite everyone to join us in our mission to support local healthcare.”

The League of Friends is planning a range of community activities and fundraising initiatives over the next year. This will provide opportunities for residents, businesses, and healthcare professionals to get involved in supporting and improving on the range of healthcare services provided in Cranleigh.