Little voices make big differences to children's hospital experience

Pupils from a local primary school are helping to shape the future of patient care and experience at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM). 

Staffordshire Children’s Hospital at Royal Stoke welcomed 14 pupils from Westlands Primary School in Newcastle-under-Lyme as part of UHNM’s first ‘Little Voices’ visit. 

The scheme gives children the opportunity to explore hospital wards, meet staff and share their views on how the environment can feel more welcoming and supportive for young patients.

During the visit the pupils, aged from reception to year six, were asked to give feedback on a range of topics including whether the ward felt welcoming, safe and well-run. The results will help staff make improvements to ensure children feel confident and comfortable when attending. 

Teresa Wilson, matron at Staffordshire Children’s Hospital, said: "We’re thrilled to welcome pupils from Westlands Primary School to Staffordshire Children’s Hospital today. As part of our Little Voices initiative, this pilot visit gives children the chance to explore our wards, meet staff, and tell us how we can make the hospital feel more friendly and less intimidating.

“Every day we come to work to care for children, and ensuring their experience is positive is at the heart of what we do. By listening to their feedback, we can continue to improve our environment so that if they need to come back, they feel safe, supported, and confident. Both the children and our staff are very excited and we hope to make this a rolling programme so other schools can join in the future."

John Taylor, Head Teacher at Westlands Primary School, added: "It’s been brilliant to see our pupils from reception through to Year Six so engaged with the visit to Staffordshire Children’s Hospital. Initiatives like this give children a real-life perspective on the hospital environment, helping to break down any barriers or anxieties they might have. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to contribute their views and, at the same time, understand how welcoming and supportive the hospital can be for children and families."

One of the pupils, Scarlett, aged 9, said: "It’s really fun to be here at the hospital with my friends. I like seeing all the people and the snowflakes on the walls, they make it look really cool."