Spotlight on RUH in new radio show

The RUH takes centre stage in a new Radio 4 series looking at the importance of humour, relationships and personal connection in healthcare.

The series is presented by the hospital’s own Phil Hammond - doctor, journalist, broadcaster and comedian.

Dr Hammond, who works at the RUH with children and adolescents with chronic fatigue syndrome, visited hospitals around the country to meet staff working at all different levels of the NHS. Through his conversations he hears about what makes staff laugh and cry and finds out why they are so proud to work for the NHS.

At the end of each of his visits he performs a stand-up show for staff, with the content based on his experiences of those he met at that hospital.

One show in the four-part series focuses solely on the RUH and its staff.

Those interviewed at the RUH ranged from cleaners to consultants and intensive care staff.

Dr Hammond said: “It’s been a real privilege to be involved with this series. I’ve met so many wonderful people across all levels of the NHS and heard so many incredible stories.

“One of the programmes focuses specifically on the RUH and it was wonderful to meet so many people in the trust – many that I hadn’t had the opportunity to speak to before.

“I hope people will like the series. It’s an affectionate look at the people that make the NHS the incredible organisation that it is, and how humour plays a vital part for staff when communicating with their patients and colleagues.”

The weekly series begins tonight (August 26) at 6.30pm on Radio 4. The RUH will be featured on Thursday, September 9 at 6.30pm. If you can’t listen live, you can listen back on the BBC Sounds app.