Sensory room opened for young hospital patients

A sensory bay has opened in an accident and emergency department in Derby to help families who find hospital environments overwhelming.

The new space has been created at the Children's Emergency Department at Royal Derby Hospital by Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity using £10,000 of donations and fundraising.

The charity said by having young patients feel calmer and more comfortable, it makes it easier for clinicians to deliver care.

A charity spokesperson said the bay was "designed to reduce anxiety and sensory overload" for neurodivergent and other children, using adaptable lighting, a light tunnel with music, projectors to display stars on the ceiling and floor, and changeable slides to suit each child's needs.

Sensory toys and visual cue cards are also provided.

Jill Matthews, the charity's chief officer, said: "Thank you to everybody who donated to allow us to install the sensory bay.

"Our charity exists to enhance the patient experience and it's clear from the feedback received so far that this new addition has been so very gratefully received and it will continue to make a difference to young patients and their families for years to come."

The project forms part of wider work to improve inclusion and accessibility within children's emergency care in Derby.

Dr Andrew Seggie, who championed the project during his time at the hospital, said: "What I'm most proud of is that this work outlasted my time here.

"It's embedded in the team and still growing - that's what good quality improvement looks like."

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