New sensory room opens for patients in eye clinic at UHNM

A new sensory room for patients has opened in the Orthoptic department at University Hospitals North Midlands (UHNM). 

Funded by UHNM Charity, the calming new space is expected to transform the experience for young patients with additional needs who come into hospital for eye tests or treatments.

The room offers a safe and relaxing space for patients of any age who may become anxious, distressed or nervous about their appointment. The room contains padding, colour changing bubble tube, toys and sensory lighting which can help patients to relax and allow them to forget about the hospital environment. 

Claire Carrick, Head Orthoptist at UHNM said: “We have a lot of children and patients that have got additional needs and often when they come to the eye department they have to have invasive tests which can be distressing so it was important for us to create a calmer environment for our patients.  

“During their appointments they could be seen by a number of people so the room also allows us to minimise the patient pathway throughout the department, allowing us to carry out procedures and appointments in the room. Thanks to UHNM Charity we have been given the equipment we needed so that we can see the patient in the sensory room with ease, meaning less disruption for the patient.

“This facility is going to make such a difference to the orthoptic department and the ophthalmology team as it means we can see patients more effectively and reduce the amount of times they need to come to the department if they are distressed. We want to make everyone’s visit as smooth and as enjoyable as possible so that they have a positive hospital experience.”

Tracy Bullock, Chief Executive at UHNM came along to the opening of the new sensory room which made possible by the generosity of UHNM Charity and the hard work of UHNM estates and facilities team.  

Tracy said: “This sensory room is going to make such a difference to our patients, and I am really delighted that so many can now benefit from this calming environment. It is fantastic that our Orthoptic department has a dedicated and therapeutic space for children attending appointments.”

If you would like to donate to UHNM Charity please visit: https://www.uhnmcharity.org.uk/get-involved/ways-to-donate/