Bedfordshire Freemasons Support Opening of New Acute Services Block at Luton & Dunstable Hospital

On Tuesday 6th December Bedfordshire Freemasons joined healthcare leaders on Tuesday for a special celebration marking the opening of the new Acute Services Block at the Luton & Dunstable Hospital.

Rob Venn and  Tony Green  attended the event on behalf of the Province to acknowledge the completion of a major community health project supported through Masonic charitable giving.

A combined £20,000 donation—funded through matched contributions from the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) and the Bedfordshire Provincial Charity Fund—was presented to the Hospital Charity to sponsor two paediatric “Pods.” These specially designed rooms support children and young people preparing for elective surgery, helping to reduce stress and improve their overall experience.

The donation has been used to furnish the Pods with vibrant artwork, sensory lighting, and a wide selection of toys, games, and puzzles. One standout feature is a scale-model Tesla electric car, which younger patients can drive on their way to surgery, offering a calming and engaging distraction during what can be an anxious time.

Richard Sumray, Chair of the Luton & Dunstable Hospital, expressed his gratitude for the Freemasons’ contribution, noting that their support has added “special value” to a project that will provide long-lasting benefits to families across Bedfordshire.

The new Acute Services Block represents a significant milestone in the hospital’s ongoing development, and the involvement of Bedfordshire Freemasons highlights our continued commitment to supporting the local community.