Gloucestershire Hospital trials virtual reality breaks for patients

Patients who spend a long time in hospital will be able to virtually visit some well-known Gloucestershire landmarks thanks to a new trial aiming to improve wellbeing.

The project has been launched to allow some patients to “visit” places like Gloucester Cathedral, Puzzlewood or Symonds Yat through immersive 360 video headsets.

Currently, the trial is available to patients in oncology and the department of critical care across both Gloucestershire Hospitals.

“We look forward to partnering with more locations including Gloucester Cathedral and Gloucester Rugby, to enhance this offering further in the coming months,” a Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson said.

Some patients struggle with long periods in hospital and its thought that having a break through virtual reality will help, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

“We have already curated a collection of stunning local hotspots and we are collaborating with businesses and organisations across the county to expand our library of content,” a trust spokesperson said.

“So far, we have had the privilege of working with Puzzlewood, Dean Forest Railway and Bristol Zoo Project to capture some breathtaking footage.”

Gloucester and Cheltenham hospital staff said they are excited to see the impact this initiative will have on patients’ well-being.

Patient consent is required to use the headsets.