NHS social worker swims from UK to France to raise money for patients
Vikki Chester, a Senior Forensic Social Worker at Rampton Hospital, has successfully completed a relay swim across the English Channel to raise funds for Nottinghamshire Healthcare Charity.
Together with teammates Juliette Lewis and Anne Radovic, Vikki completed the epic swim in an impressive time of 16 hours and 20 minutes. The trio began their challenge in the early hours of Monday 30 June, setting off at 2:30am from Samphire Hoe in the UK and landing on the shores of Plage de Strouanne in France.
The conditions were challenging, with choppy seas at the start and a particularly tough final stretch. The last two miles were a bit of a nightmare, said Vikki. The tide flows against you due to the geography of the land, and the wind was also against us - and we were very tired at that point. But we made it!
Vikki Chester, Senior Forensic Social Worker said, "This has been one of the most physically and emotionally demanding things I've ever done but knowing that it will help create a calming space for our patients kept me going. I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who's donated - we're so close to our target now, and I can't wait to see the difference this will make."
Jacky Chapman, Care Group Director for Forensics at Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust added, "Vikki's achievement is nothing short of remarkable. Swimming the English Channel is a huge personal challenge, but she's turned it into something even more powerful by raising funds for our patients. Her dedication and compassion reflect the very best of our staff."
Vikki took on this incredible challenge to raise funds for a low-stimulus sensory room for patients with Personality Disorder and Neurodevelopmental conditions at Rampton Hospital. These patients often face significant challenges in emotional regulation, and a calm, quiet environment can make a powerful difference in their recovery.
The sensory room will offer a much-needed therapeutic space for patients who cannot leave the ward, providing comfort, calm, and the opportunity to develop crucial coping skills.
Kathryn Foster, Ward Manager at Rampton Hospital said, "The new sensory room will be transformative for the people we care for. Many of our patients need spaces where they feel safe, calm and in control - this room will offer just that. We're so proud of Vikki and deeply appreciative of the support this appeal has received."
Thanks to the generosity of supporters, Vikki and her team are just £205 away from reaching their £1,000 fundraising target. The appeal remains open, and every donation makes a meaningful difference.
To support Vikki in her mission to improve patient wellbeing, donations can be made via their Just Giving page.
The charity extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributes to our mission. The continued support directly impacts the lives of our patients, their families, visitors and our colleagues. To sustain this important work, we depend on the ongoing generosity of individuals and companies. For more information or to see how you can help, please visit our charity website.
The Nottinghamshire Healthcare Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (no: 1111895).
Rate this page or report a problem
