Bradford Hospitals Charity has unveiled a state-of-the-art cinema at Bradford Royal Infirmary, bringing big-screen magic directly to young patients and their families. The £40,000 facility, officially opening on 27 November with a screening of the festive favourite Elf, aims to offer children a welcome escape from the hospital environment in the lead-up to Christmas.
Located on the children’s ward, which cares for patients up to the age of 16, the cinema is the first of its kind in Yorkshire. Specially designed to accommodate beds, wheelchairs and medical equipment, the space allows children to enjoy immersive film experiences while continuing to receive care. The new facility is intended to bring comfort, joy and a sense of normality to families during what can be difficult and stressful times.
“This is more than just a cinema,” said Catherine Piggot, Play Specialist at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. “It’s a space where children can feel like children again—where laughter, imagination and connection can flourish, even during the most difficult times. The ward is buzzing with excitement, we can’t wait to start using the space later this week.”
The cinema will offer regular free screenings each week for patients and their families, with private viewings available for those in particularly sensitive circumstances. Research shows that cinema experiences can significantly reduce stress, anxiety and feelings of isolation—benefits the charity hopes will have a real impact on young people undergoing treatment.
Laura Riach, Director of Bradford Hospitals Charity, said: “The young children being cared for at Bradford Teaching Hospitals absolutely need spaces like this. They’re in hospital, and we’d hate for them to miss out on experiences – this cinema means they can be children again, using their imagination, and finding a distraction from everything else going on.”
She added her thanks to the companies and partners who contributed time, resources and equipment to make the project possible.
The cinema was gifted and coordinated by Together for Cinema in support of Bradford Hospitals Charity. Clever Association installed the technology, while Tigerplay helped shape an atmosphere of play and fun within the room.
Ian Morrish, Founder and Managing Director of Together for Cinema and Giving.Back.tech, said: “With this being our 57th cinema room installation I am more than aware of the long-term benefit and joy this room will bring and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to make it happen at the children’s ward of the Bradford Royal Infirmary. With great support from the Audio Visual industry, and skilled assistance from local AV installer, Clever Association, and Tigerplay… I believe we have created a special room that will be used and enjoyed for many years to come.”
Bradford Hospitals Charity is encouraging the community to support similar transformative projects, helping to bring “light, laughter and healing” to people using hospital services.
