The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is known across the world, but the skies are not the only place that hot air balloons can be seen in the region – they feature in the revamp of an area of the Royal United Hospital in Bath.

The Bristol charity committee of the Aberdeen Standard Investments Charitable Foundation gave Time is Precious funding for the refurbishment of a paediatric anaesthetic room in the hospital’s Day Surgery Theatre to make it more cheerful and family-friendly.

The new look includes hot air balloons, both in wall murals and ceiling hangings, and distraction boxes filled with items like baby toys, sensory aids and a tablet for use by young patients. The revamp was designed in consultation and liaison with hospital staff, and as well as being colourful and pretty, the choice of the hot air balloon theme serves a very useful purpose.

Time is Precious trustee and founder, Nicky Halford, explained: “The refurbished room will help the child to relax more, and the idea of having the hot air balloon theme is to encourage children to feel more at ease and take breaths to blow them and reduce stress. The distraction box is to take their minds off their anxieties and includes baby toys, sensory aids and a tablet.

“The theatre operates on forty-to-sixty children each week, so the impact within Bristol and Bath communities will be amazing. No-one wants to be in hospital, and it can be daunting for children and anxious for parents. If a child feels more relaxed, it’s easier for families and that’s the aim of our charity – improving the environment and facilities for families whilst in hospital. Already we have had lots of positive feedback from people saying how much it has helped.”

Time is Precious was set up by Nicky and her husband Neil, of Coleford, in memory of their son, Ben, who died from cancer in 2010. The charity seeks to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere in hospital for children and their families. It also works alongside specialists to purchase equipment and refurbish areas to support children who, because of illness or disability, find themselves in hospital for treatment.