Background Bob Sensory Room & Garden officially opens at Colchester Hospital

A brand-new Children’s Sensory Room and Garden at Colchester Hospital has officially opened, creating a calm and supportive space for young patients and their families. 

The much-anticipated project marks a powerful legacy for Noah Jones, affectionately known as ‘Background Bob’, a talented teenage artist from Dedham who lived with hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Through his collaborative art project and the incredible generosity of the local community, more than £250,000 was raised to support children’s services at the hospital. 

Thanks to these remarkable fundraising efforts, Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity has funded both the indoor sensory room and outdoor garden, transforming a tired part of the Children’s Department into a welcoming, therapeutic environment. 

The newly opened space has been carefully designed to support children’s wellbeing during their time in hospital. The sensory room offers a safe, calming indoor retreat, while the garden provides an interactive outdoor area where children can relax, play and engage their senses away from the clinical setting. 

Noah’s family joined charity representatives, hospital staff and supporters at a special opening event to celebrate the completion of the project and the lasting impact of his legacy. 

Nathan Jones, Noah’s dad, said: “It’s such a big space, and to see it transformed like this is really emotional for us. It’s bright, welcoming and full of life, a place where children can play, make friends and just be themselves for a little while. When your child is in hospital, it’s such an overwhelming and emotional time, so having somewhere safe and calm to step away from the ward and the hospital bed means everything. It gives families a moment to breathe, and that’s so important.” 

Chief Nurse, Catherine Morgan, said: “Noah’s story has touched so many people across our hospitals and the wider community. It is incredibly special to see this project come to life and to officially open a space that will bring comfort, calm and moments of joy to so many children and families. This is a truly lasting legacy.” 

The Background Bob Sensory Room and Garden will now be used by children receiving care at Colchester Hospital, offering a peaceful escape and helping to reduce anxiety during what can often be a difficult time. 

This project stands as a testament to the power of community, creativity and kindness, ensuring Noah’s spirit continues to make a difference to young patients for years to come.