Companies have provided ear-plugs and eye-masks to Colchester Hospital for their “Sleep Well in Hospital” campaign.

Noise and light on a ward can disturb a patient’s sleep, slowing down their recovery and potentially extending their hospital stay.

Thankfully the hospitals campaign is looking to combat this with its new campaign and it has support from British Airways who were generous enough to provide the campaign with eye masks – often used by customers on their flights.

Safety wear and equipment providers Arco also provided donations, their hard-wearing earplugs.

Lead quality improvement nurse Karen Lake, said: “This is about making changes for our patients by listening to them and learning from their experiences.

“Staff from all disciplines are encouraged to get involved in making small changes to benefit the patients, their carers, staff and visitors.”

The campaign began after more than a third of patients complained about noise coming from fellow patients and staff during the night.

The campaign is part of Colchester Hospital’s quality improvement programme which makes small changes to improve care.

The first eye masks and ear plugs were donated to Aldham Ward.

Ward sister Lucy Crimmin said: “As well as the eye masks and ear plugs we also make sure our night shift staff switch off the lights in the patient bays by 10.30pm, while the corridor lights go out at 11pm.

“Only the patient safety lights in the bays, reception area, and the clean and dirty utility area are kept on overnight.”

British Airways customer service manager Scott Coglan, said: “We are delighted to support this campaign and contribute towards improving the patient experience.

“We always try to go the extra mile for our customers and the eye masks are very popular in aiding a peaceful night’s sleep.

“We hope the patients reap the benefits that many of our customers do, as part of their ongoing recovery.”