Our new chemotherapy and oncology outpatient unit opened to patients at HRI this week.

The new Greenlea Unit is now based on the former Ward 7 after moving from the end of Ward 3.

New features include a  spacious and airy patient waiting area,  an information centre with a range of Macmillan leaflets,  an on-site drugs room, a quiet room, a staff kitchen and latest dual-screen technologies so staff can access double the amount of patient information at a single glance..

Patients will be cared for in the main room (pictured with some of the team) smaller bays and individual ensuite rooms.

The walls have been decorated with murals featuring a huge goldfish bowl  and flowers and staff's children have created a charming range of pictures of butterflies. Youngsters' paintings of flowers done nine years ago, when the old suite opened, also made the transition.

Sister Jackie Swire, said: " For all of us it's been a long wait but this is well worth it and we are thrilled. Anyone who saw our former unit will agree we have a real asset here which is so much better for our patients and their families and a lovely environment for staff to work and share with them."

The unit will hold an official opening next month, and Carol Armitage who has volunteered for the unit for 19 years will snip the ribbon.