St Wilfrid’s Hospice patient group attendees have been enjoying the opportunity to try out a virtual reality (VR) headset to take them to faraway places.

The project is being organised by Rachael Findlay-Geer, our Digital Health Lead.

Sue Clark attends the Living Well Drop-In Group at the hospice on Tuesday afternoons and was one of the first to try the headset. She said: ‘When Rachael suggested I have a go, I was worried there would be flashing, but it was fine. It’s quite comfortable to wear and is amazingly clever.

‘I visited Thailand a few years ago and wanted to go again to celebrate my 70th birthday but due to ill-health, I couldn’t go, so I settled for the VR instead. I virtually went to Bophut Beach and the Big Buddha and it was exactly as if I was there. I might take a trip around Lake Garda next as we used to enjoy going there,’ Sue said.

‘I’m so grateful that the Living Well Drop-In Group exists. I enjoy going and the staff are incredible. The hospice feels calm and peaceful when you walk in. It’s not what you expect a hospice to feel like.’

Rachael said: ‘We have two Meta Quest 2 VR headsets available, thanks to funding from Worshipful Company of IT and a generous donation by one of our deceased patients.

‘VR offers a wonderful opportunity to experience something a bit different and users can virtually walk down streets, visit numerous places across the world, play instruments or just enjoy guided meditations. There really is something to suit everyone.’

Pictured: Sue tries out the VR headset