Sensory bags for patients at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children

Your donations have funded sensory resources for patients with learning disabilities and autism within University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust.

The new bags contain ear defenders, fidget toys, eye masks and more to ease anxiety for patients and their families.

The bag and its contents At least 20 bags have been given out so far, mainly in the children's emergency department and outpatients areas, but they are available in every ward and department at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children and staff have described them as “game-changing” for supporting those children who may struggle with being in hospital.

Martin Wood, Paediatric Disability Clinical Specialist at the Trust, said: “The sensory care bags have been enthusiastically received by staff in every department in the hospital. Everyone can think of that child who found coming to the hospital a challenge and became overwhelmed by the demands of the strange environment and meeting new people. This could lead to distress and emotional responses that the child and their family couldn't control and meant that appointments could be lost and everyone involved left feeling distressed about this missed opportunity for care - whether it was planned or emergency.

“These bags give hospital staff a new tool to try to provide some distraction and sensory relief. The ear defenders and eye shades allow the child to filter out the bright and noisy environment and refocus on themselves and their feelings. The toys are chosen to let a child stimulate or soothe their complex senses and find calm. And the inclusion of a colouring book and crayons is something for the child to use to distract themselves from the need to be in hospital...and some parents will enjoy it too!"

Not everything will be needed by every child, but the bag can be grabbed by staff and something inside it will be just what was needed in that difficult situation.

The feedback so far…

100% of recipients said the sensory items reduced anxiety

100% said receiving the bag made their visit more comfortable

Parents have said...

I can’t begin to explain what a difference that bag has made for Thea. She is beaming. She's gone from withdrawn, shutting down, and emotional through overwhelm, fear and boredom… to a little girl who is smiling and calm. She said she felt like there were people out there who really cared about her wellbeing in hospital when she’s facing a big change to her life after a Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis.”

We can’t thank you enough for care bag.
Our daughter was in the cardiology department for two and half hours and certainly lessened her distress. Stickers aren't enough to support her. Thank you!"

The ear defenders and poppet were fab and used instantly! I can’t express what a welcomed surprise this was. Our daughter was highly anxious and this was a very welcome distraction! We can't thank you enough."

Your support can improve the health and happiness of patients treated at your hospitals, ensuring everyone has the best possible experience for their individual needs.

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