New sensory bags have been introduced to provide additional support for autistic people and those with a learning disability who attend Walsall Manor Hospital.
The initiative has been designed to offer comfort and reduce stress for patients when they are accessing healthcare services.
Patients with sensory needs can find noisy environments overwhelming – causing them heightened anxiety and stress.
Leeds Teaching Hospital came up with the idea of the bags, designed to offer comfort and reduce stress for patients when they are accessing services. Leeds colleagues were happy to share their idea with Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s charity Well Wishers which went on to fund 80 bags for its Emergency Department to use.
Elaine Wharton, Lead Learning Disability and Autism Nurse at Walsall Healthcare, said: “Hospitals can be unsettling places for many, but for individuals with a learning disability and/or autism, the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and routines can be especially overwhelming.
“Sensory overload, anxiety, and confusion are common, making it more difficult for these patients to feel safe and understood.”
Each care bag includes:
These items are designed to reduce anxiety, offer comfort, and create a calmer environment for the patient, leading to a more positive hospital experience and outcome.
Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager, said: “These bags are going to make a huge difference to some of our patients.
“As a charity, we are delighted to be able to support the Learning Disabilities Team with this initiative.”
If you are supporting a patient with a learning disability and/or autism who would benefit from one of these sensory bags prior to their visit, please contact the Learning Disability Specialist Nurse on 01922 656443 or Ext 6443.
