The formation of the first Cornish Hospital, the social and economic impact of the mining boom and the work of the Royal Cornwalls Hospital Charities today
In the heart of the Royal Cornwall Hospital as people travel through to the wide and varying specialised departments, is a display. Highlighted is the need for universal health care in Cornwall and the impact that business and individuals have supporting this cause.
Founding the first Cornish Hospital
The Royal Cornwall Hospital was built to serve Cornwall’s mining community. William Pryce, a local Apothecary who had attended many mining accidents, witnessing these tragedies at first hand, was first to suggest the hospital.
The idea was taken up by Sir Francis Basset of Tehiddy (Lord De Dunstanville) the Member of Parliament for Penryn, in the Summer of 1790. He visualised a hospital that could serve the whole county – two thirds of which lived east of Truro at the time.
Working closely with Sir Francis were fellow Cornish MPs Sir John St. Aubyn and Sir William Lemon. Together they planned this project and drove it forward.
The building fund accounts for this period 1790 – 1799 records that these three contributed £800 between them with a further £500 coming from HRH The Prince of Wales.
The legacy of charitable support has continued through the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity.
Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity
Who we are
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust is the main provider of acute and specialist care services in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, serving a population of around 470,000 people.
We’re proud and thankful for the work carried out by the Trust and are here to help them provide outstanding care for their patients and their families.
We believe that every act of kindness, every generous donation, and every moment of care can make a world of difference in the lives of patients and their families.
How we are funded
We are 100% funded by donations.
That means our ability to make a difference relies entirely on the generosity and support of compassionate individuals, businesses, and communities like you!
Work we’re proud of
We’re proud of all the work we do, but here are a few highlights:
- One Year On: Heart of Headland Boxes Bring Comfort and Care to Hundreds of Patients – December 2, 2024
- Pedal 4 Patients 2024 – October 4, 2024
- Vascular Studies service returns to Penzance thanks to generous donor – April 25, 2024