Simon Hickson manages the CW+ Medicinema, a state-of-the-art cinema at the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital where patients can enjoy the latest films for free. In this video, Simon explains how an in-hospital cinema works, and the impact that film can have on patient wellbeing.
Bringing cinema into the hospital
I’m Simon Hickson. I’m the Manager at CW+ MediCinema at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. If you come to this hospital you’ve got a cinema, you’ve got an art gallery, you’ve got so many great things to help support the wellbeing of the patients.
Seeing the impact on patients
Visiting the wards is one of the best parts of the job. When I visit the patients, I don’t think they believe there’s going to be a cinema in the hospital. Some patients come on drips, some patients come with oxygen. We can take them in their beds, we can take them in a wheelchair, or we can accompany them walking. When they come into the cinema, the looks on their faces are amazing.
The power of film
Another thing patients can’t believe is that we are showing the latest films. We even show some films ahead of their release. It’s great to see the power of film and the effect it can have on patients and their guests. We all take it for granted that we can go to the cinema, but when you’re really poorly and you can’t go, and particularly if you love cinema, having the chance to come with your family in the hospital can be priceless.
A chance to escape
Some patients are getting better. Some patients can be very poorly. Coming to the cinema gives them a couple of hours to forget their worries and escape into the world of film. It can be truly transformative.
The support of CW+
We couldn’t do what we do at MediCinema here at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital without the support of CW+. They help fund the nurses. They help with the screenings. They support me in my role. We just couldn’t do it without their amazing support.
Support the CW+ MediCinema
Help provide some welcome escapism for patients and their families.
