When healthcare meets heritage: Burton’s Hospital swan installation
Our mission has always been to put people at the heart of healthcare. This extends beyond connecting patients with life-changing medication to supporting the communities where we live and work. We’re proud to have supported the Queen’s Hospital Burton-upon-Trent install a beautiful sculpture from renowned willow artist Emma Parkins.
Five swans take flight
The installation features five majestic, white willow swans captured mid-flight. The sculpture was unveiled today in the hospital’s main atrium, where it will provide a warm and uplifting welcome to patients, staff and visitors.
The choice of swans holds special significance for Burton. From the iconic swan sculpture at Stapenhill Gardens – first installed in 1953 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation – to the birds that grace the River Trent, swans are woven into the town’s heritage. This new installation honours that tradition while bringing contemporary energy to a healthcare environment.
What makes this project particularly meaningful is that the idea came directly from NHS staff, who were invited to choose which animal they would most like to see represented in the space.
Emma Parkins’ signature style brings the ancient craft of willow weaving to life with unique artistic flair. Her sculptures are celebrated for their character, charm and emotive presence – qualities that make them particularly suited to healthcare settings.
We believe healthcare is both an art and a science that combines empathetic clinical care with digital innovation. These swans reflect that balance beautifully: crafted with precision and artistry, yet full of life and emotion.
Gordon Cox Chief Operating Officer, Sciensus
Our commitment to giving back
This partnership reflects one of the six core pillars of our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy: giving back. Through volunteering, fundraising and charitable partnerships, we’re creating positive social impact locally and nationally.
With over 30 years of experience helping patients access life-changing medicine, we understand our responsibility to our people, patients and the planet. Our ESG strategy encompasses our environment, people and diversity, colleague wellbeing, giving back, sustainable operations and strong governance – all working together to drive meaningful impact.
The swan sculpture can be viewed in the atrium area at the main entrance (Belvedere Road) of Queen’s Hospital Burton. Click here to read the full press release from Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity.