Big Give donors help bring the Painted Hall to London’s hospital wards

The Old Royal Naval College took part in the Big Give’s Arts for Impact campaign, a seven-day matched giving appeal that ran from 17–24 March 2026. A total of 51 public donations were matched by the Big Give Trust alongside a small group of the charity’s supporters.

The additional funding translates directly into access for children and young people. This includes twelve more outreach sessions across six London partner hospitals, bringing the annual total from 21 to 33. Art, history and play sessions will draw on the Painted Hall, celebrating its 300th year anniversary, giving children in hospital a connection to one of Britain’s most historic and beautiful painted interiors.

Goody Whyatt, Senior Learning & Engagement Manager at the ORNC, said:
“We were thrilled to have been included as part of this year’s Big Give appeal; with this extra funding we can improve the lives of more children at a difficult time in their lives and hopefully welcome them and their families back to the Painted Hall once they have recovered.”

Matthew Mees, Chief Executive of the Old Royal Naval College said:
“This campaign brought together donors, match funders and members of the public around a shared belief in what heritage can do for people’s wellbeing. Thanks to their generosity, more children will experience the history and artistry of the Painted Hall this year, even if they can’t see it themselves. We are enormously grateful to everyone who gave.”

The Big Give: Arts For Impact appeal has closed, but we accept donations throughout the year. Money raised supports everything from hospital outreach sessions for children to the upkeep of the 17 acres of historic buildings and grounds in the heart of Greenwich.